Multilingual Identity and Language Choice among University Students in Pakistan

Abstract

This paper focuses on the correlation between multilingual identity and language choice in university students in Pakistan. With a diverse linguistic setting with Urdu, English, and regional languages, students tend to juggle between two or more identities via language choices at school and social life. The study examines the influence of educational background, social context, peer influence, and perceived prestige of languages in the choice students make to use a given language. Surveys and interviews show that English is mostly related to academic achievements and career growth, whereas Urdu and local languages are connected with cultural belonging and emotionality. Students often alternate languages based on the context, which is a sign of dynamic multilingualism, not definite linguistic preference. The results show that choice of language is not only a communication activity but also an identity negotiation and social positioning. The research points out the necessity to have an inclusive language policy within higher education institutions that sees multilingualism as an asset and not a liability. It further proposes pedagogical solutions that can promote linguistic diversity and enhance a good command of the English language in schools.

Keywords: Multilingual Identity, Language Choice, University students, Pakistan, Code-Switching, Linguistic Diversity, Sociolinguistics.

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.19683811