The Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) has issued a major update for partner schools across the province, confirming that students will now enjoy two weekly holidays starting November 2025. The decision has been taken in view of health concerns, rising smog levels, and the need to ease pressure on students and teachers during the winter months.

The updated schedule will remain in effect until 15 April 2026, unless a new advisory is issued by the provincial authorities.

What Has Changed for PEF Schools?

Two Weekly Holidays (Saturday & Sunday)

For the first time, PEF-associated schools will remain closed on Saturday as well as Sunday.
Previously, these schools only observed a holiday on Sunday, while Saturday remained a regular school day.

The inclusion of Saturday as an official weekly holiday means:

• Students get more rest

• Teachers have additional preparation time

• Reduced exposure to polluted outdoor air

New School Timings (Effective November 2025 to April 2026)

PEF has also revised its daily schedule:

📌 Monday to Thursday

8:45 AM to 1:30 PM

📌 Friday

8:45 AM to 12:30 PM

These timings will stay in place until mid-April 2026.

Why Were Timings and Holidays Changed?

Punjab has been facing severe smog-related health challenges, especially in major cities like Lahore, Faisalabad, Sheikhupura, and Gujranwala. This year, air quality levels have repeatedly crossed the “hazardous” category, making it unsafe for children to spend long hours outdoors.

A series of official meetings and environmental reviews resulted in updated school policies aimed at:

• Reducing students’ outdoor exposure

• Managing morning pollution peaks

• Supporting schools during high-pollution months

• Ensuring educational continuity without compromising health

The Punjab School Education Department had already revised timings for government schools earlier in response to the deteriorating air quality. PEF has now aligned its schedule with these precautionary measures.

Statements From Provincial Leadership

Senior government officials have highlighted the need to prioritize children’s safety:

Provincial Minister for Education

He confirmed that adjusting school hours was essential to protect students from dangerous smog levels.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb

She shared that cross-border wind patterns are pushing polluted air into central Punjab, intensifying Lahore’s smog. The government has introduced strict measures and monitoring systems to reduce pollution and safeguard public health.

Air Quality Situation in Punjab

Many districts are currently experiencing extremely poor air quality:

• Lahore

• Kasur

• Sheikhupura

• Faisalabad

• Gujranwala

Hazardous AQI levels have made early morning school commutes especially risky for young children and staff.
The new schedule decreases exposure during peak smog hours and helps reduce congestion on the roads.

How Long Will the New Policy Remain Active?

The revised holidays and timings will stay enforced until 15 April 2026.
However, if smog levels continue to rise, the education department may issue further updates.

Key Highlights at a Glance

Conclusion

The introduction of two weekly holidays and revised school hours reflects Punjab’s urgent need to protect children from severe air pollution. With hazardous smog becoming a yearly challenge, these temporary changes aim to safeguard students’ health while ensuring academic activity continues smoothly.

If the air quality improves, the schedule may return to normal after April 2026. Until then, parents are advised to follow official advisories closely and ensure children take proper precautions during high-smog days.