WEBDESK: The Punjab Department of Special Education has officially changed school timings for institutions catering to children with special needs. The decision comes as part of the department’s ongoing efforts to ensure a comfortable learning environment, especially as temperatures continue to rise across the province.
According to the new notification, all government special education schools in Punjab will now operate from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm from Monday to Thursday and on Saturdays. On Fridays, schools will close early at 11:30 am. These updated school timings will remain in effect until the beginning of the summer vacations.
The department said that the revision in school timings is aimed at protecting the health and well-being of special children, who may be more vulnerable to the challenges brought on by extreme weather.
This latest weather prediction adds to the concerns, as the cities of Islamabad, Lahore and Karachi are still under the effects of a heatwave. Some places have reached extreme highs of 48°C and the weather is not likely to cool down any time soon.
From May 28, 2025, till August 9, 2025, students in Punjab will be on summer holidays. The holidays were first scheduled for early June, but the government chose to hold them in late May to shield students from hot weather.
Health officials recommend that individuals consume enough water, avoid the heat of the afternoon outdoors and refrain from traveling unless necessary.
By shortening the school day, the government hopes to create a more comfortable and manageable routine for both students and staff.
The department has made similar changes in the past for special education institutions. To make it easier for students to handle the changes in weather, school times were adjusted and uniform rules were eased at the start of winter.
Officials also confirmed that the revised school timings have been communicated to all heads of special education institutions across Punjab. Schools have been directed to implement the new schedule immediately and make sure that parents are informed.
