Punjab Private Schools Reject Friday Closures
Private school associations in Punjab have expressed strong opposition to the provincial government’s new energy-saving initiative, which mandates school closures on Fridays. Under the Punjab Education Department’s directive, both public and private institutions will now observe three weekly holidays: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Academic activities will only take place from Monday to Thursday.
State Bank of Pakistan Simplifies IT Export Rules to
School leaders argue that this additional closure will create further disruption in an already strained academic calendar. Irfan Muzaffar Kiyani, President of the All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association, emphasized that schools had already remained closed for 21 days in March. He stated that adding three weekly holidays would reduce teaching days significantly and negatively impact students’ learning outcomes.
- Schools already faced closures in March for 21 days
- New policy introduces three weekly holidays on Friday, Saturday, Sunday
- Academic sessions limited to Monday through Thursday
Government Relief Package 2026 After Petrol Price
Academic Calendar at Risk
The associations warn that the new schedule will leave very few effective teaching days before the summer break. According to Irfan Muzaffar Kiyani, between now and May 31, students will only have around 30 teaching days due to weekly closures and upcoming Eid holidays. He stressed that early April is critical for parents to purchase textbooks, uniforms, and other learning materials, making the timing of the closure particularly challenging.
Malik Naseem Ahmed, President of the All Pakistan Private Schools Association (Registered), also criticized the decision. He pointed out that repeated closures over the past year have already disrupted students’ education. Both associations are now planning to challenge the government’s directive in court, seeking to maintain a consistent academic schedule.
- Only 30 effective teaching days expected before May 31
- Eid al-Adha holidays will add 3 more days off
- Repeated closures have created learning gaps for students
| Month | Total Holidays | Effective Teaching Days | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| March | 21 | 10 | Previous closures |
| April-May | 30 | 30 | Includes Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Eid |
Concerns Over Educational Disruption
Private school leaders argue that the frequent closures are unfair and threaten the quality of education. Kiyani highlighted that the first ten days of April are crucial for students to receive textbooks and school supplies. Limiting the number of working days could force schools to rush the curriculum or reduce content coverage.
Ahmed emphasized that education systems thrive on consistent schedules. Sudden changes like additional holidays can affect both teachers’ lesson planning and students’ learning progress. Parents are also expected to face logistical challenges, including adjusting schedules for pick-ups, transport, and academic support at home.
- Early April is crucial for textbook and supply preparation
- Reduced teaching days may force curriculum compression
- Parents face challenges adjusting to sudden schedule changes
CM Punjab Rehmat Card Scheme 2026 Complete
| Association | Position | Action |
|---|---|---|
| All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association | Opposed | Planning court challenge |
| All Pakistan Private Schools Association (Registered) | Opposed | Publicly criticized policy |
FAQs
Why are schools in Punjab closing on Fridays?
The Punjab government introduced Friday closures as part of an energy-saving program.
How will these closures affect students?
Students may face reduced teaching days, potentially impacting curriculum coverage and exam preparation.
Are private schools challenging the decision?
Yes, private school associations plan to take legal action against the government’s directive.
When will schools normally resume classes during the week?
Classes will be held from Monday to Thursday under the new schedule.