New School Timings in Punjab from 26 October 2025 – Official Notification
The Government of Punjab has officially introduced new school timings starting from 26 October 2025. This announcement was made by Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat on his verified Facebook page. According to the minister, the new school hours will be from 8:45 AM to 1:30 PM. The decision has been made keeping in mind the cold weather conditions across the province during winter.
This change has brought a wave of relief among both students and teachers, as many had been struggling with the early morning chill while traveling to schools. The official notification regarding the new timing is expected to be released later this evening, confirming the details for both public and private educational institutions in Punjab.
The Punjab Education Department has also clarified that Saturday will remain an off day for students, allowing them to rest and spend time with family during the weekend. However, for teachers, alternative Saturdays will be working days as part of school administrative duties and staff meetings. This means that teachers will attend school on specific Saturdays, as scheduled by the head of the institution, for activities such as lesson planning, training sessions, and reviewing student progress. This balanced approach ensures that students enjoy a two-day weekend while teachers continue to contribute to the smooth academic functioning of schools.
Reason for Change
The main reason behind adjusting the school timings is the seasonal change. As winter approaches, mornings in many parts of Punjab, especially in cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Sargodha, and Rawalpindi, become extremely cold and foggy.
The early morning start of school was becoming difficult not only for students but also for teachers and parents. Many students travel long distances to attend school, and during foggy mornings, it becomes risky and uncomfortable.
By starting school at 8:45 AM, the Education Department aims to make mornings safer and more manageable for everyone.
New School Timings
According to the new schedule announced by the minister:
- Morning Shift (All Schools): 8:45 AM to 1:30 PM
- Friday Timing: Expected to be 8:45 AM to 12:15 PM (to be confirmed in the official notification)
This timing will apply to all government and private schools across Punjab unless specified otherwise in the upcoming official notice.
Reaction of Teachers and Students
The decision has been widely welcomed by teachers, students, and parents across the province. Many expressed relief that they will no longer have to leave their homes before sunrise during cold winter mornings.
Teachers believe this decision will help improve attendance rates, especially among younger students who often fall sick due to the cold. Parents also appreciated that the change will ensure their children’s safety and comfort while traveling to school.
A teacher from Lahore commented,
“This is a very practical decision by the Education Minister. During December and January, fog and cold make travel very difficult. The new time will help students attend school regularly.”
Expected Benefits
The new school timings bring several benefits:
- Better Health and Safety:
Students will avoid exposure to cold temperatures during early mornings, reducing the risk of seasonal illnesses like flu and fever. - Improved Attendance:
With more comfortable timings, absenteeism is likely to decrease, especially among primary and middle school students. - Reduced Morning Rush:
Parents and school vans will have more time to prepare, leading to safer travel and less congestion on roads. - Better Focus in Class:
When students arrive after sufficient rest and warmth, they are more alert and attentive in the classroom.
Official Notification Coming Soon
Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has announced that the official notification confirming the new winter timings will be issued this evening by the School Education Department, Government of Punjab.
This notification will include detailed instructions for all district education authorities (DEAs) and school heads to ensure proper implementation from Monday, 27 October 2025.
The announcement will also clarify:
- Whether the timing applies to single-shift and double-shift schools.
- Special arrangements for Friday prayers.
- Instructions for private schools and academies.
Implementation and Monitoring
After the notification, school heads will be directed to update parents and students immediately through notice boards, WhatsApp groups, and class announcements.
Monitoring teams from the Education Department are expected to visit schools to ensure compliance with the new timing. Schools failing to follow the directive may face administrative action.
Additionally, transport authorities will be informed so that school van and bus schedules can be adjusted accordingly.
Public Response on Social Media
Since the minister’s post appeared on social media, hundreds of students and teachers have shown appreciation in the comments. Many users thanked the Education Department for being responsive to public needs and making a practical seasonal adjustment.
Some users also suggested that such winter schedules should be announced every year in October to avoid confusion and ensure smooth implementation across the province.
Summary
- New Timings: 8:45 AM to 1:30 PM
- Effective Date: From 26 October 2025 (Sunday)
- Official Notification: Expected this evening by the School Education Department
- Applicable To: All government and private schools in Punjab
- Purpose: To provide convenience and safety during winter
The Government of Punjab’s Education Department has taken a timely and student-friendly decision by revising school hours for the winter season. With the official notification expected soon, schools are preparing to implement the change immediately.
This small but meaningful step ensures comfort, safety, and better learning conditions for thousands of students across Punjab as they continue their education during the colder months.
