Most private schools in Lahore and other cities in Punjab have updated their daily schedules following improved weather conditions and a reduction in smog across the province.
With the new schedule, younger students will attend classes from 8:00 AM until 1:30 PM, while older students will continue until 2:00 PM, allowing a slightly longer school day for senior grades.
Previously, the Environmental Protection Department had required all schools to start at 8:30 AM due to heavy smog, with the directive remaining in effect until December 31, when air quality was hazardous.
Punjab faced extremely dense smog during December and January, forcing authorities to warn the public as several districts recorded critically dangerous air pollution levels affecting health and daily activities.
The Additional Secretary of Schools clarified that private institutions can now set their own schedules, as the strict timing rules issued during severe smog conditions only applied until January 31.
Government schools, however, will implement major changes to their operating hours from April 15, and during Ramadan, all schools in the province will follow adjusted schedules for fasting students.
Earlier this week, the Punjab School Education Department prohibited private schools from pressuring parents to purchase books, uniforms, stationery, or other items from selected shops, labeling such practices illegal and exploitative.
According to a circular issued by the department, any coercion or requirement to buy from specific vendors violates the law governing private schools, ensuring parents retain freedom to choose where to purchase supplies.
Private schools may only provide lists of necessary books and items, while it remains illegal for them to force purchases from any designated shop or vendor, safeguarding parents’ rights and financial choice.