Impact of Community Conflict on Academic Performance of Parachinar Students in University of Peshawar

Abstract

Community conflict is a pervasive issue affecting various aspects of society, particularly education. In regions such as Parachinar, prolonged conflicts have disrupted normal life, impacting students’ ability to focus on academics and achieve their full potential. This study aimed to find out the effects of community conflict on students' academic performance and classroom engagement, to explore the psychological and emotional impact of community conflict on students' learning motivation and classroom participation and to identify coping strategies and institutional support mechanisms that can help mitigate the negative effects of community conflict on students' education. Quantitative survey based descriptive approach was used. The population of the study was all the university students enrolled in the University of Peshawar during the current session. A total number of 252 students were enrolled and only 52 were selected as a sample of the study due to their timely availability. Self-constructed questionnaire comprised of 30 items was developed for the collection of data. The study findings reveal that community conflicts significantly impact students' academic performance, motivation, and emotional well-being. A substantial majority of respondents reported difficulties in concentrating, completing homework, and participating in university activities due to community conflicts. Although students use positive thinking and get engaged in extra activities to manage their stress, they often think that the university’s support services are inadequate. According to the study, community conflict significantly impacts students’ learning and emotional well-being, contributing to difficulties in their academic performance. Yet, students manage the challenges by using various strategies yet often judge that campus and community services are lacking. Universities in Parachinar should set up programs that help students deal with conflicts in their communities. Having safe classrooms, easy access to mental health care, and other resources can all improve students’ education and their overall well-being. Besides, teachers and students should receive guidance in giving emotional support, and community-based actions can aim to promote solutions to conflicts and peace.