Educational institutions across Punjab are set to reopen on August 24 after a three-month summer break, though the provincial School Education Department has yet to issue a final notification confirming the new academic session timings.
According to available information, schools operating on a single shift are likely to hold classes from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm on Mondays through Thursdays, with a shorter schedule on Fridays running from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm.
Schools functioning on a double shift system are expected to run their first shift from 8:00 am to 12:30 pm, followed by a second shift from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm.
With reopening only days away, students and parents have been seeking clarity on the revised schedule, though the department has not yet confirmed the timings officially.
Separately, the Punjab government has directed all schools to adopt strict precautionary measures ahead of the upcoming smog season under the Pre-Smog Action Plan 2026. School administrations have been instructed to limit outdoor activities in order to protect students from air pollution.
Under the directive, schools must assess the Air Quality Index before permitting outdoor exercise, physical training, or other open-air activities. Sports and physical activities are to be organised in a manner that minimises student exposure to polluted air.
Officials said the measures are aimed at safeguarding the health and safety of students in the event of rising air pollution across Punjab during the smog season.
