Punjab Private Schools Oppose Friday Closures
Private school associations across Punjab have strongly opposed the provincial government’s recent decision to close schools on Fridays as part of an energy conservation initiative. According to the new directive issued by the Punjab Education Department, all public and private schools will now observe three weekly holidays—Friday, Saturday, and Sunday—leaving only Monday through Thursday for academic activities.
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Concerns Over Reduced Teaching Time
School representatives argue that the additional weekly closure will further strain an already disrupted academic calendar. Irfan Muzaffar Kiyani, President of the All Pakistan Private Schools and Colleges Association, highlighted that schools were already shut for 21 days in March. He warned that introducing another weekly holiday would significantly reduce instructional time and harm students’ academic progress.
Kiyani estimated that, due to the new schedule and upcoming holidays, students will have only about 30 effective teaching days remaining before May 31. He stressed that this limited time frame is insufficient for proper syllabus completion and exam preparation.
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Additional Disruptions Ahead
The situation is expected to worsen with the arrival of Eid al-Adha, which will add more تعطیلات (holidays) to the calendar. Education leaders believe this combination of closures could force schools to rush through coursework or skip important topics altogether.
Malik Naseem Ahmed, President of the All Pakistan Private Schools Association (Registered), also criticized the policy. He pointed out that repeated interruptions over the past year have already created learning gaps, and further تعطیلات will only deepen the problem.
Timing Raises Practical Challenges
School officials emphasized that early April is a crucial period for distributing textbooks, uniforms, and other learning materials. With fewer working days, schools may struggle to complete these essential preparations efficiently.
Parents are also likely to face challenges adapting to the new routine, including managing transportation, childcare, and academic support at home.
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Possible Legal Action
Both major private school associations have rejected the policy and are now considering legal action to challenge the government’s decision. They argue that consistency in the academic schedule is essential for maintaining educational standards and ensuring student success.
Key Points at a Glance
- Schools will operate only Monday to Thursday
- Friday closures introduced for energy saving
- Around 30 teaching days expected before May 31
- Additional تعطیلات expected during Eid al-Adha
- Private school associations planning a court challenge
Conclusion
The decision to introduce Friday school closures in Punjab as part of an energy-saving plan has sparked significant concern among private school stakeholders. Education leaders, including Irfan Muzaffar Kiyani and Malik Naseem Ahmed, argue that the reduction in teaching days could negatively impact students’ academic progress, especially after previous disruptions.
With limited instructional time, upcoming holidays like Eid al-Adha, and an already compressed academic schedule, schools fear difficulties in completing the curriculum effectively. As a result, private school associations are considering legal action, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that addresses energy concerns without compromising the quality of education