In 2019, when I noticed the subject of Digital Humanities (DH) in the Higher Education Commission’s (HEC) list of approved courses in the MPhil programme, I volunteered to teach it at the Institute of English Studies, University of the Punjab. I thought this was the time to begin doing it now, if not then, when I came across this term and field during my cross-disciplinary research in PhD from the University of Leeds, UK.
With spirits sky high, I started tracing DH’s trajectory in other Pakistani universities, both public and private. To my surprise, I did not find it in any curriculum. There was an international workshop arranged for Pakistani teachers by the American Institute of Pakistan Studies in 2019; another similar event took place at LUMs. But, DH was neither introduced as a subject, nor put into practice in humanities teaching in Pakistan.
Initiating the course titled “Introduction to Digital Humanities” in a state university has been a challenging task. What I thought would be a fresh breath of air, was unwelcoming for fear of strangling English literature. It has been generally distasteful to the fraternity, and students who are not ready to embrace English literature and humanities in other shape, size, and place.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of education, the practice of Digital Humanities (DH) has sparked debates, discussions, and skepticism among academia. While the subject has gained importance across various global platforms, the question remains - what relevance does Digital Humanities hold for Pakistani universities? This question has been lingering within the halls of academia in Pakistan, where traditional disciplines have held strong ground.
However, there is a growing realization that embracing Digital Humanities can bring about transformative changes in education, research, and societal engagement.
In this article, we explore the potential of Digital Humanities in Pakistani universities and address the challenges and opportunities it presents. This article delves into the potential avenues, subject awareness, collaboration opportunities, and community engagement that DH can bring to the Pakistani higher education system.
Digital Humanities presents a multitude of career prospects that extend beyond conventional paths like civil service, judiciary, or academia.
With the world becoming increasingly digital, the demand for individuals who can bridge the gap between technology and the humanities is rising. Pakistani universities can equip their students with skills in data analysis, digital storytelling and content creation, opening doors to positions in digital marketing, content management, cultural preservation and more.
Despite the initial disinterest expressed by the postgraduate students towards Digital Humanities, it is crucial to recognize their lack of exposure to the field. The unfamiliarity with the term "Digital Humanities" may stem from the divide between technological innovation and traditional humanities studies.
However, these perceived disparities can be addressed through effective teaching methods that demystify the field and highlight its practical applications in today's interconnected world.
Digital Humanities is not just about utilizing technology in the classroom; it's also about creating a collaborative and compassionate learning environment.
Networks of individuals who have been working together globally have forged a path towards enhanced research, argumentation, and collaboration. By fostering similar collaborations within Pakistani universities, students and scholars can engage in enriching conversations, share knowledge, and co-create valuable insights.
One of the primary factors that bring Digital Humanities to the forefront is the vast array of job opportunities it unlocks. As we move deeper into the digital age, skills related to data analysis, information visualization, and digital storytelling have become invaluable.
Integrating Digital Humanities into the curriculum can equip students with skills that are highly sought after in the job market. This presents a pathway for students to explore career avenues beyond traditional options, such as civil services and academia.
Moreover, introducing Digital Humanities can broaden subject awareness and rejuvenate academic fields. Pakistani universities have long been focused on classical disciplines like literature, history, and philosophy.
And by incorporating Digital Humanities, students can delve into new ways of exploring these subjects, from computational analyses of literary texts to the digital preservation of historical artifacts.
The integration of Digital Humanities into Pakistani universities can serve as a catalyst for collective consciousness. By embracing digital tools and methodologies, students can embark on interdisciplinary journeys, combining diverse perspectives from history, literature, sociology, and technology. This inclusive approach not only expands students' horizons but also encourages critical thinking and empathy.
A core principle of Digital Humanities lies in collaboration. Through digital projects and initiatives, scholars, students, and professionals can collaborate across disciplines and geographical boundaries. This collaboration fosters a sense of compassion, as individuals work together to create innovative solutions to complex problems.
By embracing this ethos, Pakistani universities can foster a culture of cross-disciplinary cooperation, enabling students to engage with diverse perspectives and gain a deeper understanding of complex global challenges.
Digital Humanities holds the potential to restore the human essence to the humanities. This paradigm shift can remind us of the essence of public humanities, offering avenues to explore societal issues, engage in community-based research, and create impactful projects that resonate with the people. The field can play a vital role in addressing challenges brought forth by the COVID-19 pandemic, offering innovative solutions through digital platforms that connect communities, disseminate information, and facilitate support systems.
Digital Humanities is not merely about technological tools; it's about understanding human experiences, cultures, and societies in a digital context. This alignment with human experiences can lead to innovative projects that serve local communities. For instance, digitizing local histories, languages, and cultural artifacts can contribute to preserving heritage and enhancing community identity. By involving students in such projects, universities can instill a sense of social responsibility and encourage students to give back to their communities.
While the incorporation of Digital Humanities into Pakistani universities presents promising opportunities, it is essential to address the challenges hindering its adoption. Traditionalists may fear that digitization compromises the integrity of literature and humanities. Decolonialists may worry about Western hegemony and surveillance in the digital realm.
Reticence among both students and faculty, stemming from concerns about compromising traditional values or succumbing to Western influences, can be addressed by emphasizing that Digital Humanities is not about replacing traditional methods but rather enhancing them with innovative tools. Bridging these concerns requires highlighting the field's potential to enrich, rather than erode, the essence of humanities.
The journey of introducing Digital Humanities into Pakistani universities began with the vision to rescue humanities from its economic crisis. The experience of initiating "Introduction to Digital Humanities" in a state university exemplifies the transformative power of forward-thinking approaches. While challenges persist, embracing change and fostering an environment of acceptance can unlock new avenues of learning, research, and societal impact.
The relationship between Digital Humanities and Pakistani universities is not one of discord, but of untapped potential. By understanding the field's relevance, embracing collaborative networks, and prioritizing community engagement, these institutions can lead the charge in redefining the boundaries of education. Digital Humanities is a transformative movement that promises to reshape the educational landscape and empower the next generation of thinkers, creators, and policy-makers.
As Pakistani universities navigate the complexities of incorporating Digital Humanities, it's crucial to recognize that the future is intertwined with technology. By embracing this fusion, universities can empower students to navigate an increasingly digital world while preserving the essence of their cultural heritage. Through collaboration, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to both tradition and progress, Pakistani universities can unlock the full potential of Digital Humanities for the betterment of the society and its humanities teaching.
In conclusion, Digital Humanities offers Pakistani universities a pathway toward education that combines traditional knowledge with modern technological skills. By integrating Digital Humanities into the curriculum, universities can empower students with critical skills, foster collaboration, and bridge the gap between academia and the community.
Embracing this next frontier of education can enable Pakistani universities to redefine their role in society and contribute to shaping a future where innovation and heritage preservation go hand in hand.