Punjab government has made a major decision regarding extension of holidays in schools throughout the province.
As per the decision, schools in Punjab will open from April 1 and no further extension in holidays is planned, according to provincial education minister Rana Sikandar Hayat.
The schools will begin formal classes from April 1 for five days in a week.
According to the minister, making schools functional for three or four days would not be feasible and would affect the educational process.
He clarified that educational institutions will not operate under a hybrid system. Reports about schools opening only three or four days a week are baseless.
All institutions will reopen as per routine and continue normal academic activities.
He urged parents, teachers, and students not to rely on rumours circulating on social media and to trust only official statements.
He said authorities are aware of the academic losses caused by closures and will try to ensure the education system runs without disruption.
Schools in Punjab have been closed from March 10 to reduce economic pressure from rising fuel prices amid the Middle East conflict.
Officials had considered options like extending closures, hybrid learning, and fuel rationing to tackle the energy crisis.
The government has now decided to fully restore academic activities across the province, ensuring students return to classrooms without further delay.
Timetable issued for government schools
A new timetable has been issued for government schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
According to the notification, primary schools will start at 7:30am, while closing time will be 1:35pm.
Morning assembly will now include moral training, student speeches on different topics, and practical activities. These have been made mandatory.
Students will receive moral education three days a week through speeches, and three days through skits.
School heads have been directed to organise a weekly “Bazm-e-Adab” on the last working day.
After the literary session, the last three periods will be used for staff meetings and completion of registers.
In case of teacher shortages or long leave, headteachers and subject specialists will take classes.
All District Education Officers have been instructed to ensure strict implementation of the timetable in schools.
