Islamabad Schools to Remain Open on Saturdays

The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) in Islamabad has announced a significant shift in the city's education calendar. Effective from November 30, 2024, all schools in the city will now remain open on Saturdays, marking a break from the usual weekend routine. This decision aims to compensate for the instructional time lost due to prolonged closures caused by protests and demonstrations in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

The decision, aimed at ensuring students receive sufficient instructional time to complete their syllabus on schedule, has been met with mixed reactions from students and parents. While some parents have expressed concerns about the increased workload, others are relieved that their children will be able to attend school and complete their studies without any interruptions. The FDE has emphasized that this move will not impact the students' academic curriculum, and regular assessments and evaluations will continue as usual.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government has announced a 20-day winter holiday for schools in the province, starting from December 20, 2024, to January 10, 2025. This decision appears to be in direct contrast to the FDE's move, as it may impact the instructional time for students in the province. However, the FDE officials have clarified that their decision is a one-time measure to make up for lost time, and they will reassess the situation in February 2025 to determine the next course of action. The Federal Directorate of Education has assured that all institutions will continue to observe regular working hours, with the new Saturday schedule adding to their overall instructional time.

In response to the protests and sit-ins that had forced schools to close, the government's swift action has helped restore order in the capital. With education activities resuming in Islamabad, students are thrilled to be back in their classrooms, catching up on lesson plans that were affected by the prolonged closures. As Islamabad returns to normalcy, the city's schools will now have to adjust to a new schedule, ensuring that students receive the guidance they need to meet their academic goals.

The change in schedule is expected to have a significant impact on the daily routine of students and their families. While some may struggle to adjust, the FDE's decision aims to provide students with the opportunity to catch up on their studies, ultimately promoting academic excellence in Islamabad's schools.