New School Timings in Punjab for Ramzan 2026 (Official)
The Government of Punjab has officially announced new school timings for the holy month of Ramadan 2026. The School Education Department (SED) issued a formal notification on 16 February 2026 directing all public and private educational institutions in Punjab to follow revised school hours during Ramadan.
Every year, school timings are adjusted to make it easier for students, teachers, and staff to observe fasting while maintaining academic activities. Ramadan brings changes in daily routines, so the government shortens school hours to support students’ health and comfort.
The new schedule applies to both single-shift and double-shift schools across Punjab province. Parents, students, and school administrations are advised to carefully review the updated schedule to avoid confusion once Ramadan begins.
Below is a complete explanation of the official notification and what it means for schools and families.
Why School Timings Change During Ramadan
Ramadan is a sacred month observed by Muslims through fasting from dawn to sunset. During fasting hours, people avoid food and drink, which can affect energy levels, especially for children attending school.
To reduce physical strain on students and teachers, school hours are shortened. This allows students to return home earlier and rest while still continuing their academic activities.
Punjab government adjusts school schedules every year with these goals:
- Support students observing fast
- Reduce fatigue during daytime heat
- Maintain academic continuity
- Improve student attendance during Ramadan
- Create a balanced routine for families
The Ramadan timing policy has become a regular annual practice in Punjab.
Official Ramadan 2026 Timings for Single Shift Schools
Schools operating in a single shift will follow shortened hours throughout the Ramadan period.
Monday to Thursday Schedule
Schools will operate from:
8:30 AM to 1:00 PM
This schedule reduces daily school hours while allowing completion of academic activities.
Friday Schedule
Friday hours are slightly shorter due to congregational prayers:
8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Students will be dismissed earlier than other weekdays.
Single-shift schools across Punjab must strictly follow these hours unless further instructions are issued.
Official Timings for Double Shift Schools
Many government schools operate in double shifts due to student population and limited infrastructure. The Ramadan notification also provides updated timings for these institutions.
Morning Shift (Monday to Thursday)
Morning shift schools will run from:
8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Students attending the morning session will leave earlier than usual.
Afternoon / Evening Shift (Monday to Thursday)
The second shift will operate from:
1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
This ensures both shifts get sufficient teaching time without overlapping.
Friday Timing for Second Shift
On Fridays, the afternoon shift timing changes to:
2:30 PM to 5:00 PM
This change accommodates Friday prayers and staff scheduling.
Double-shift schools must carefully manage student arrival and departure to avoid congestion between shifts.
Special Instruction for Girls Schools
The notification includes a special instruction regarding girls’ schools.
All girls’ schools in Punjab must start and close 15 minutes earlier than the timings announced.
For example:
- If boys’ schools open at 8:30 AM, girls’ schools will open at 8:15 AM.
- If closing time is 1:00 PM, girls’ schools will close at 12:45 PM.
This policy aims to support safe travel arrangements and family routines.
School administrations must clearly inform parents about the adjusted timing to avoid confusion.
Impact on Students and Parents
The change in school timing affects daily routines for families across Punjab.
Benefits for Students
Shorter school hours help students:
- Manage fasting more comfortably
- Reduce fatigue and dehydration risk
- Spend more time resting at home
- Focus better during class hours
Parents often welcome Ramadan schedules as they reduce stress on children.
Impact on Working Parents
Working parents may need to adjust pick-up and drop-off timings. Schools usually inform families in advance so arrangements can be made.
Transport services also update schedules according to new timings.
Instructions for School Administrations
The School Education Department expects all institutions to strictly follow the official notification.
Schools must:
- Inform parents through notices and messaging groups
- Adjust transport timing
- Ensure punctual arrival and dismissal
- Avoid unnecessary delays after closing time
- Maintain discipline during shift changes
- Ensure student safety during peak heat hours
Non-compliance may result in administrative action.
Private schools are also expected to follow government directions.
Teacher and Staff Adjustments During Ramadan
Teachers and school staff also benefit from adjusted hours during fasting.
Shorter work periods help teachers maintain energy levels while fasting. However, teaching staff are still required to complete curriculum plans within reduced hours.
Schools may adjust lesson plans to prioritize important topics during Ramadan.
Some institutions also reduce homework pressure to support students.
Expected Duration of Ramadan Schedule
The Ramadan school schedule usually remains in place for the entire fasting month, which lasts around 29 or 30 days depending on moon sighting.
Once Ramadan ends, schools resume normal working hours after Eid holidays.
Parents should watch for official announcements regarding the return to normal timings.
Public Response to Ramadan School Timings
Every year, parents and students wait for official announcements regarding Ramadan schedules.
Most families support the decision since fasting children often struggle with long school hours, especially during warm weather.
Social media discussions usually focus on:
- Whether timings are short enough
- Transport adjustments
- Shift management issues
- Examination scheduling
Overall, the Ramadan timing policy receives positive response across Punjab.
Advice for Students During Ramadan School Days
Students observing fast should follow healthy habits to stay active during school.
Recommended practices include:
- Eating a healthy Sehri meal with protein and hydration
- Avoiding excessive physical activity during fasting hours
- Sleeping early to maintain energy
- Carrying school materials efficiently to avoid strain
- Using rest time after school productively
Parents are encouraged to monitor children’s health, especially younger students.
Transport and Safety Considerations
Transport services also change schedules during Ramadan.
Schools are advised to:
- Ensure transport vehicles arrive on time
- Avoid overcrowding
- Provide safe dismissal arrangements
- Coordinate traffic flow at school gates
Parents should arrive early to avoid traffic congestion during shift changes.
Possible Future Adjustments
Although the current schedule is official, changes may occur if needed due to weather conditions, examinations, or administrative decisions.
Any revisions will be announced by the School Education Department through official channels.
Parents and students should rely only on verified government notifications rather than social media rumors.
Conclusion – New School Timings in Punjab for Ramzan 2026 (Official)
The Punjab government’s official Ramadan 2026 school timing notification provides clear guidance for all educational institutions across the province. Both single-shift and double-shift schools will operate on reduced hours to help students and staff observe fasting comfortably.
Parents should take note of the adjusted timings, especially the 15-minute earlier schedule for girls’ schools, and plan daily routines accordingly.
The aim of these changes is to balance education with health and religious practices during Ramadan. Schools, families, and transport providers must cooperate to ensure smooth implementation.
Students are encouraged to use the adjusted schedule wisely by maintaining focus on studies while taking proper rest.
As Ramadan approaches, schools will begin sharing reminders to ensure a smooth transition into the new schedule.
If further updates are issued, families should follow official announcements from the Punjab School Education Department.
Ramadan Mubarak in advance to students, teachers, and families across Punjab.
