Cold weather cuts school days short

The Punjab School Education Department has formally issued an official notification announcing the new operating hours for all government schools across the province.

The revised schedule will come into effect from January 19 (today) and will continue to apply until April 15. The step has been taken to counter the prevailing severe cold weather and prolonged fog, which have collectively hampered school's affairs. This comes after winter vacations were extended an additional week.

According to the notification, for schools operating on a single shift, classes will run from 10.00am until 2.15pm from Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, the school day will be shorter, with classes concluding at 12.30pm. For double-shift schools, the morning shift will take place till 2.00pm, while the afternoon shift will begin at 2.15pm and continue until 4.45pm.

The notification further elaborated that teachers are required to attend school on alternate Saturdays as well. These additional working days are dedicated to curriculum preparation, participation in training sessions and engagement in Continuous Professional Development activities aimed at strengthening teaching practices.

According to the School Education Department, the primary purpose behind introducing these adjusted timings is to create a more balanced and effective learning environment for students, particularly considering the winter weather conditions. At the same time, the changes provide teachers with structured opportunities to enhance their professional skills.

Education authorities have called upon teachers, students, and parents to adhere strictly to the new timetable.