The Punjab School Education Department has announced that all public and private schools in the province will now follow a four-day week. Schools will remain closed on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This change is expected to give students and staff a longer weekend while also saving energy.
Under the new schedule, single-shift schools will operate from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm. Double-shift schools will run in two parts: the morning shift from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, and the afternoon shift from 1:00 pm to 5:30 pm. The revised timings are designed to ensure that students still get enough learning hours despite the shorter week.
Officials have said that this step is part of broader austerity and fuel-saving measures. Rising fuel costs and ongoing tensions in the Middle East have affected energy availability, prompting the government to find ways to manage consumption.
Schools are among the largest users of electricity and transport fuel, so reducing operational days is expected to save significant resources.
Parents and teachers have had mixed reactions. Some see it as an opportunity for family time and rest, while others worry about the impact on learning and childcare arrangements.
The education department has assured that teaching schedules will be adjusted to cover the full syllabus, and learning will not be compromised.
The four-day week is part of Punjab’s plan to balance energy conservation with educational needs, and authorities will review its effects over the coming months to decide whether to continue the policy.
