Farid Ullah Khan: Assessing the Applicability of Kingdon's Multiple Streams Model in Contemporary Policy Agenda-Setting: Identifying Shortcomings and Proposing Modifications for Enhanced Relevance

The process of agenda-setting plays a critical role within the domain of policy formulation, and John Kingdon's Multiple Streams Model (MSM) (1984) is prominently recognized for its insightful contributions to this area. However, given the complex and constantly evolving nature of the policymaking landscape and contemporary societal challenges, critical voices have emerged questioning the model's current adequacy. Consequently, there is an increasing scholarly demand for refining the model to ensure its continued pertinence in contemporary policymaking. This research aims to critique and advance Kingdon’s MSM, utilizing the case of the Malala Yousafzai shooting incident in Pakistan. By analysing the intersection of problem, policy, and political streams within such incidents, the study will scrutinize the capacity of MSM to highlight the dynamics of policy agenda-setting in diverse political environments. The research will propose the Kingdon-Khan Model (KKM), an innovative adaptation addressing fundamental limitations in Kingdon’s Model. The KKM will consider new elements, including the pivotal role of social media in shaping public opinion and driving the policy process. The modified model will then be applied and tested on the education agenda setting process in Pakistan following the Malala shooting incident. This research is expected to offer significant insights into the agenda-setting process, enhancing the Kingdon MSM's relevance and applicability in modern policymaking contexts. The findings are expected to contribute to the academic literature and provide policymakers with an enhanced tool for navigating agenda-setting.