Exploring the role of volunteerism in developing leadership skills amongst the youth of Ismaili Muslim Community in the context of Karachi, Pakistan

Date of Award

2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Philosophy in Education

Department

Institute for Educational Development, Karachi

Abstract

Youth has been considered the most important part of society. There are thousands of institutions and communities working for the positive development of youth around the world. Faith-based organizations are playing a significant role in the development of the youth and community throughout Pakistan. Many faith-based organizations are engaging youth in different volunteer activities. In this connection, the Ismaili Muslim Community of Karachi has developed organizations and mechanism to engage the youth in the volunteer activities. In this case study, the role of volunteerism in developing leadership skills among the Youth of Ismaili Muslim Community in the context of Karachi, Pakistan has been explored through in-depth interviews of four senior volunteers (age group 25-35) and three focus group discussions (age group 18-25) from different areas of Karachi were carried out to understand the role of volunteerism in developing leadership skills among the youth of the Ismaili Muslim community. The data showed that all the youth members of the Ismaili Muslim community have a clear understanding of volunteerism and its characteristics. Religion influence emerged as a consistent point for performing volunteer services. They all resonate their narrative of performing volunteer services as an expression of faith. The study showed that their moral codes are developed by faith but have a clear understanding to serve humanity regardless of any difference; besides, their religious engagement the data showed that the youth render volunteer services for many other reasons such as to learn new skills, or to gain inner satisfaction, etc. The finding revealed that there is a positive relationship between volunteerism and learning in personal, social, and professional domains of life. One can develop essential qualities and traits through volunteer work which includes confidence, communication and presentation skills. The youth further link volunteerism to increase their academic knowledge, communication skills, love and respect for others. The study confirms the improved job performance as one of the outcomes of the volunteer services. They also expressed their critical insights on volunteer services experience which shows that there is a further need for transparency in volunteer management in the organizations. Overall, the youth appreciate the efforts institutions make for their development.

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