LAHORE: The Punjab government has finalized a new schedule for school timings for the winter season, which will take effect from October 20, 2025, and remain in place until March 2026.
According to a TV report, the Education Department has completed the draft schedule and sent it to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for final approval. Once approved, an official notification will be issued.
Rumors circulating on social media suggested that the provincial government planned to end Saturday as a weekly holiday. However, Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat clarified that the weekly holiday will remain unchanged, and schools will stay closed on Saturdays.
The Education Department said minor changes will be made to the school timings during winter to protect students from the cold weather.
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Is the Punjab Government Ending Saturday Holiday for Schools?
No, the Punjab government is not ending the Saturday holiday. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said schools will stay closed on Saturdays as usual, and no change has been made in the weekly holiday schedule.
Government Issues Security Advisory for Schools Across the Province:
Meanwhile, due to security concerns, a new advisory has been issued for all government and private schools across Punjab. Daily bag checks have been made mandatory to ensure the safety of students.
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The department also directed all educational institutions to install CCTV cameras and strengthen their security systems. Guards and watchmen will use metal detectors during checks.
CCTV Cameras, Bag Checks Made Mandatory to Ensure Student Safety:
It added that students, teachers, and staff will be informed about the importance of security. Bringing weapons or sharp objects such as guns, knives, and scissors to school has been strictly banned.
Additionally, all schools have been instructed to activate their security alarm systems immediately.
