Gender Studies is a part of the optional CSS subjects. It’s a course from the Group V of subjects along with Environmental sciences, Agriculture& forestry, Botany, Zoology, English literature and Urdu Literature. The paper is worth 100 marks, the division is as follows
Time Allowed: Three Hours
Part - I (Mcqs): Maximum Marks = 20 (30 Minutes)
Part - II Maximum Marks = 80 (2.5 Hours)
There will be 7 subjective questions from which you will have to attempt 4. These 7 questions will be one from one category given below
The students should at least have grasp of the sociology of gender and sex. The students will be further tested on the theories relating to gender, gender roles and feminism.
I. Introduction to Gender Studies
This requires the students to have a basic understanding of what gender studies entails, its inculcation in university education. Its comparison with women studies and its present status in Pakistan. The theories of integration and autonomy of gender studies is also very important.
II. Social Construction of Gender
It is very important to have a grasp over the nature vs nurture arguments in the determination of both sex and gender. Whether they are socially developed or biologically determined. It is important not only for this section but forms the basis of the entire course. The theories of feminism, masculinity and Queer theory are very important.
III. Feminist Theories and Practice
This section focuses more on the history, politics and academic side of various movements related to gender and sex. Theories like liberal feminism, radical feminism, Marxist/socialist feminism, psychoanalytical feminism, men’s feminism, postmodern feminism. The candidate is supposed to have the knowledge of when these theories emerged, in what socio-economic context and what they imply for the society.
IV. Feminist Movements
Similar to the previous section. Each theory had corresponding movements. Focus on when they emerged, what their objectives and demands were and their success. Feminist Movements in the West, First Wave, Second Wave and Third Wave Feminism, United Nation Conferences on Women, Feminist Movements in Pakistan.
V. Gender and Development
This section demands the knowledge of how various movements and theories have impacted the socio political and socio-economic context of women. In the world and specifically in Pakistan. How has the position of women changed in the public sector, what factors enabled it and what hurdles they faced. Some relevant subtopics are
VI. Status of Women in Pakistan
It requires the analysis of position of women in society with respect to their role in various areas of society. E.g. the health facilities, education and employment opportunities. Furthermore, the issues women face in these arenas of life, whether it be women in law or their employment.
VII. Gender and Governance
This section is specific to women in politics and administration. This includes hurdles in women’s way to politics and gender bases issues as voters, as candidates, as representative. The implication of women quota in politics. Also keep in mind the main movements and theories which focused on women empowerment relating to politics e.g. the Suffragist movement. These would allow you to add a deep sociopolitical analysis to you answer.
VIII. Gender Based Violence
The student should be aware of the difference between violence and gender-based violence along with its causes/ deep roots in society. Understand the theories of violence, of why it happens and its types whether physical or mental and direct or indirect. Finally read up on plausible solutions for this issue, strategies to eliminate it.
IX. Case Studies of:
They will be asked in connection with violence against women hence answer it in association with the types, causes and issues of violence in Pakistan. The Student should be aware of the stories behind the relevant documentaries and should provide an analysis of the main issues.