New operating hours announced for Punjab's public schools; effective from October 16
Published 1 hour ago | By Nouman Shakeel
The School Education Department of Punjab has revised the operating hours for government schools across the province. Under the new schedule, distinct timings have been set for single-shift and double-shift schools; these will remain in effect from October 16, 2026, to March 31, 2027.
According to the notification issued by the department, the conclusion times for academic activities differ between the period of Monday through Thursday and the day of Friday.
Timings for Single-Shift Schools
Under the new schedule, single-shift government schools will open at 8:45 AM from Monday to Thursday, with dismissal at 1:30 PM. On Fridays, academic activities will conclude at 12:30 PM.
New Schedule for Double-Shift Schools
Separate timings have been established for the morning and second shifts in double-shift schools.
The morning shift will run from 8:45 AM to 1:15 PM, Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, this shift will conclude at 12:30 PM.
The second shift will operate from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, the second shift will begin at 2:00 PM and conclude at 4:30 PM.
Flexibility for Girls' Schools
The notification also allows for a 15-minute adjustment in the operating hours of girls' schools, should the need arise. For this purpose, the respective Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of Education have been authorized.
The School Education Department, Punjab, has directed all CEOs of Education across the province to ensure the implementation of the new working hours and to inform the relevant schools about the schedule. The new timings will remain in effect until March 31, 2027.
