POLITICAL CULTURE AND DEMOCRATIC ATTITUDES: PERSPECTIVES FROM STUDENTS AND FACULTY AT MIRPUR UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, AZAD JAMMU AND KASHMIR

Abstract

This exploratory survey study investigates the political culture and democratic attitudes of students and faculty at Mirpur University of Science and Technology (MUST), Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Utilizing a structured instrument and stratified probability sampling, the study examines political engagement, acceptance of democratic values, and trust in institutions among the university community. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including the Chi-square test, to identify patterns and relationships. The findings reveal significant variations across demographic factors such as gender, age, and academic roles, highlighting the coexistence of "Subject" and "Participant" political cultures within the university. As the first systematic exploration of political culture in AJK, this study offers valuable insights and serves as a foundation for future research on understanding and promoting democratic attitudes. Based on its findings, the study offers targeted recommendations for strengthening democratic values in AJK and similar regions.