In a recent announcement, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hyat clarified the policy regarding Fridays for educational institutions. Rather than observing a full holiday, schools will implement a “work from home” approach on Fridays. This change applies to all government and private schools, colleges, and universities, which are now authorized to conduct online classes on Fridays. The minister emphasized that the traditional two-day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, will remain intact.
Minister Hyat expressed appreciation for the public’s understanding and cooperation, highlighting that the adoption of digital learning methods aims to maintain continuous educational engagement without wasting students’ time. Concurrently, the provincial education department introduced a three-shift schedule for schools: single shift from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm, double shift from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, and afternoon shift from 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm.
Meanwhile, in a significant development, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) and Islamabad have implemented a four-day working week, designating Friday through Sunday as holidays. This decision is part of broader efforts to reduce fuel consumption amid global shortages linked to the Iran War. The KP Department of Elementary and Secondary Education issued an official notification confirming the new weekly holiday arrangement, effective from April 1.
Under this system, government schools in KP will hold classes from Monday to Thursday, with daily teaching hours potentially extended to ensure syllabus completion and avoid learning disruptions. The education department has directed all district officers to rigorously enforce the revised schedule, aiming to enhance organization within the education sector while conserving resources.
