THE PEDAGOGICAL POTENTIAL OF PHILOSOPHY IN DEVELOPING MORAL COMPETENCIES OF UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

The present article examines the pivotal role of philosophy as an academic discipline in fostering the moral and ethical competencies of university students. In contemporary higher education, the development of students’ moral consciousness is not merely an auxiliary task but a foundational component of holistic intellectual growth. The study emphasizes the interdisciplinary integration of philosophical knowledge with pedagogical practices to cultivate critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and value-based decision-making. By analyzing theoretical frameworks and empirical findings, the article highlights how philosophical education can influence students’ moral behavior, enhance their reflective capacities, and support the formation of socially responsible individuals. Furthermore, it underscores the necessity of systematic pedagogical strategies that align philosophical instruction with practical moral development, thereby contributing to the broader objectives of higher education in shaping morally competent graduates..