A Change Agent for Societal Transformation”

Abstract

Purpose: Worldwide, it has been established that behind every societal change, education reform is a key accelerator in order to flourish the economy. The education system in Pakistan faces longstanding issues especially in rural areas ofthe provinces. The young cohort is facing multitude of problems because ofthe demented state ofeducation in rural Sindh. The paramount factors behind the sinking image of interior Sindh were students deprived with basic education and the gap that existed between the education and employment sectors i.e. unemployed youth. On the contrary, an institute situated in such badly maintained rural area, gained the status ofthe 3rd best business school of Pakistan as of the H.E.C. ranking of 2013, namely Sukkur IBA. How this institute created the threshold of growth in the interior region of Sindh is the major aim of the study. Sukkur IBA played a role of change agent for the societal and educational transformation in the community ofinterior Sindh. Methodology/Sample: Sukkur IBA being the unit of analysis, the research methodology used was qualitative; descriptive research-based case study. The key respondents were Director of Sukkur IBA, Faculty, Staff, Students, Parents, Alumni and Employers. The research is validated through data triangulation and methodology triangulation. Findings: The findings reflected that numerous micro-level activities are implemented to affect the macro components that yield the economic growth of the region. The initiation of talent hunt program, community colleges and schools, introduction of various departments are largely contributing towards the societal transformation. The striking contrast between the influx ofstudents and the output after graduation is notably overwhelming. The success is attributed to the leader Sir Nisar Ahmed Siddiqui, whose perseverance and diligence abolished all the prevailing paradoxical situation of education. He determined a motto and fought every obstacle that came against the motto. Practical Implications: This research has important implication for the educationalists aiming to reform the education system in rural areas. The research will help educationalists to develop a comprehensive understanding ofthe basics of operating an education system in the rural region ofPakistan.