With the holy month of Ramadan approaching, schools across Punjab are preparing to operate under revised schedules for 2026. The changes are being introduced to help students, teachers, and administrative staff cope better with fasting while continuing academic activities smoothly.
The Punjab School Education Department has formally announced updated school timings for Ramadan 2026, describing the move as a step to reduce physical strain on those observing fasts. According to initial estimates, Ramadan in Pakistan is likely to begin on February 18 or 19, subject to the sighting of the moon.
Under the revised plan, regular single-shift schools will operate from 8:30 am to 1:00 pm from Monday to Thursday. On Fridays, these schools will close earlier, with classes running from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. Meanwhile, double-shift schools will follow separate schedules for each shift. The first shift will run from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm on weekdays, while the second shift will operate from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm. On Fridays, the second shift will start later, from 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm.
At present, schools across the province are following a routine timetable from 8:45 am to 1:30 pm. This schedule will remain unchanged until April 15, after which further decisions may be taken depending on circumstances.
In recent weeks, parents have expressed dissatisfaction with the current late start times, calling on authorities to revise school hours without delay. Many families argue that now that the smog season has subsided, earlier school timings are safer for children and more practical for households.
Despite these concerns, the School Education Department has yet to introduce any additional measures or provide fresh clarification beyond the announced Ramadan schedule. As a result, parents, teachers, and school staff continue to wait for further official guidance regarding any possible changes ahead of the holy month.
Read more: Prevent Sleep Deprivation This Ramadan with Expert Tips
