Punjab Announces New Winter School Timings 2025
In a significant step towards student welfare, the Punjab Government has introduced new winter school timings effective November 3, 2025. This decision aims to protect students from cold weather and fog-related hazards while ensuring smooth educational operations. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Education Department has strictly directed all public and private institutions to start classes no earlier than 8:45 AM. Schools violating this rule will face fines up to Rs. 500,000. The directive will remain in effect until January 31, 2026, ensuring consistency across Punjab during the winter season.
Punjab Government’s Winter School Schedule 2025
| School Type & Day | Timing Schedule |
|---|---|
| Single Shift (Mon–Thu) | 8:45 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Single Shift (Friday) | 8:45 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Double Shift Morning (Mon–Thu) | 8:45 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Double Shift Morning (Friday) | 8:45 AM – 12:30 PM |
| Double Shift Evening (Mon–Thu) | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Double Shift Evening (Friday) | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Policy Effective Dates | Nov 3, 2025 – Jan 31, 2026 |
| Fine for Violation | Up to Rs. 500,000 |
Reasons Behind the Winter Timing Policy
Ensuring Student Health and Safety
Punjab experiences dense fog and extreme cold from December through January. Starting school at 8:45 AM helps prevent cold-related illnesses and reduces fog-related road accidents for commuting students.
Equal Enforcement for All Schools
The Education Department confirmed that both public and private institutions must comply with the new timings. Violations can lead to heavy fines or suspension of school operations.
Managing Morning Traffic and Safety
The delayed start time also supports smoother morning traffic flow, reducing congestion and improving safety for students and parents alike.
Key Points to Remember
- Schools cannot open before 8:45 AM from Nov 3, 2025, to Jan 31, 2026.
- Violators face fines up to Rs. 500,000 or potential license suspension.
- District Education Officers will monitor strict compliance across Punjab.
Parents and teachers have praised the decision as a student-friendly reform, emphasizing that later school hours will enhance attendance, punctuality, and health. Some private schools, however, have requested flexibility for exam schedules. Education experts applaud this move as being in line with international best practices, showing Punjab’s growing focus on student welfare and modernized educational governance.
For more details, visit the Punjab School Education Department (Official Site)
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