The All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association (APPSMA) has urged authorities to allow private schools across Rawalpindi Division to reopen, saying the continued closure is causing unnecessary disruption to students’ education.
The association has requested the commissioner of Rawalpindi Division and deputy commissioners to use their powers under Section 12-D of the Punjab Private Educational Institutions Act to permit private schools to resume classes.
APPSMA Raises Education Concerns
APPSMA leaders said the prolonged closure of private schools is affecting students’ academic progress and reducing valuable classroom learning time.
They pointed out that federal schools in Islamabad and Rawalpindi have already resumed academic activities, while schools operating under the Punjab government remain closed.
According to the association, the difference has created an unfair situation for students living in the same cities, as some children have returned to classrooms while others continue to remain at home.
The association has therefore called on district authorities to review the situation and allow private schools to reopen where local conditions are suitable.
Concern Over Learning Loss
The association also raised concerns about the number of holidays in Punjab schools.
APPSMA said students had already received only around 120 instructional days during the previous academic session. It warned that further closures could result in additional learning losses.
The association suggested that lost classroom time should be compensated by adding teaching days instead of extending holidays.
It said maintaining sufficient instructional days is essential for completing the syllabus and ensuring students are adequately prepared for examinations.
Weather Conditions Vary Across Punjab
APPSMA also questioned the province-wide approach to school closures, arguing that weather conditions in Rawalpindi can be significantly different from those in southern Punjab.
The association urged authorities to consider local weather and ground conditions when deciding whether schools should remain closed.
It said a localized approach could allow schools in areas with suitable conditions to reopen while maintaining necessary precautions in regions facing difficult weather conditions.
Schools Urged to Reopen Before August 14
APPSMA has called for private schools in Rawalpindi Division to reopen before August 14.
The association also highlighted the role of educational institutions in promoting patriotism and national unity among students.
It said schools can play an important role in engaging students in educational and national activities while helping them return to their regular academic routine.
Final Decision Awaits Authorities
The decision to reopen private schools will ultimately depend on the relevant divisional and district authorities.
APPSMA has urged officials to consider the educational needs of students and the local conditions before making a decision.
Parents and students are closely watching the situation as continued closures could affect academic schedules, examination preparation and syllabus completion.
The association maintains that schools should not remain closed longer than necessary and is seeking an early decision to restore classroom education in Rawalpindi Division.
