The Government of Punjab has officially announced new school timings for the holy month of Ramadan 2026. The revised schedule aims to provide relief to students, teachers, and school staff who observe fasting during the month.
Every year, the School Education Department adjusts academic hours to ensure a comfortable learning environment. This year’s notification clearly outlines separate timings for single-shift and double-shift schools across Punjab. Below is a complete, easy-to-understand breakdown of the new schedule.
Official Notification Issued by Punjab School Education Department
The revised timings were formally released through an official notification by the Punjab School Education Department on February 16, 2026. All public and private educational institutions across the province are required to follow the updated Ramadan schedule.
These changes will remain effective throughout the holy month only.
Why School Timings Are Changed During Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month observed by millions of Muslims in Pakistan. Students and teachers fast from dawn to sunset, which can make long school hours challenging.
To support the well-being of students and staff:
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School hours are reduced
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Friday schedules are shortened
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Girls’ schools have slight timing adjustments
This ensures both academic continuity and physical comfort.
New Timings for Single-Shift Schools
For schools operating in a single shift, the following schedule will apply:
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 8:30 AM | 1:00 PM |
| Friday | 8:30 AM | 12:30 PM |
Schools will close 30 minutes earlier on Fridays to accommodate Jummah prayers.
Updated Timings for Double-Shift Schools
Double-shift institutions will follow two separate schedules:
Morning Shift
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Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Evening Shift
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Monday to Thursday: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
Friday (Second Shift Only)
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2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
Morning shifts will operate normally from Monday to Thursday, while Friday adjustments apply mainly to the second shift.
Special Instructions for Girls’ Schools
According to the notification:
Girls’ schools will open and close 15 minutes earlier than the above-mentioned timings.
This adjustment is made to ensure safe and convenient travel arrangements.
Applicability Across Punjab
The revised Ramadan school timings apply to:
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Government schools
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Private schools
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Model schools
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All districts of Punjab
No district has been given exemption from this order.
When Will Normal Timings Resume?
Regular school hours will automatically resume after the end of Ramadan. A separate notification may be issued if any further changes are required.
Parents and students are advised to stay connected with their respective school administrations for confirmation.
Students and Parents
The shorter academic hours help:
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Reduce fatigue during fasting
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Improve classroom focus
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Maintain student attendance
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Ensure smoother daily routines
Parents are encouraged to adjust transportation arrangements according to the updated timings.
Instructions for School Administration
School heads are directed to:
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Strictly implement the new schedule
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Inform parents immediately
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Adjust transport services
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Ensure punctuality
Failure to follow the official timings may result in administrative action.
Important Points to Remember
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Timings are effective only during Ramadan
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Friday schedule is shorter
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Girls’ schools operate 15 minutes earlier
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All public and private institutions must comply
How Parents Can Stay Updated
For the latest updates:
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Follow official Punjab School Education Department announcements
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Check school WhatsApp groups
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Visit school notice boards
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Confirm directly with administration
Avoid relying on unverified social media posts.
Community Response to the New Schedule
The decision has been welcomed by many parents and teachers. Shortened hours are considered helpful for maintaining both religious obligations and academic progress during Ramadan.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will the Ramadan school timings start?
The revised schedule will start from the beginning of Ramadan 2026 and remain effective throughout the month.
Do private schools have to follow these timings?
Yes, both public and private institutions in Punjab must comply with the official notification.
Are exam schedules affected?
No separate announcement regarding exam changes has been issued yet.
Will normal timings resume automatically?
Yes, schools will return to their regular schedule after Ramadan ends.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s decision to revise school timings during Ramadan 2026 reflects a balanced approach between education and religious observance. The updated schedule reduces academic hours while maintaining structured learning. Parents, teachers, and students should carefully follow the official timings to avoid confusion.
For further updates, always rely on official notifications rather than social media rumors.
