The government has abolished the Saturday weekly holiday for all public schools and educational institutions in Islamabad. According to a notification from the Ministry of Education, this change will take effect from August 10. The decision signifies a move towards extending the academic week, with schools now operating six days a week.
The policy aims to enhance the educational experience by adding extra classes and promoting additional learning opportunities. Specifically, two extra classes will be introduced on Saturdays, focusing on Language and Mathematics. However, students have the option to opt out of these sessions if they choose.
The decision to eliminate the Saturday off day aligns with broader efforts to restore a six-day work week, which had been under consideration since June. Sources indicated that the federal government had been exploring this change to better align government office hours with educational schedules.
The Cabinet Division solicited recommendations from various ministries, which were then reviewed for a final decision. The policy’s goal includes addressing foundational literacy gaps and offering remedial classes while also incorporating activities such as sports and mind games to foster holistic development.
Impact on Students and Staff
With the new policy, students will have the opportunity to benefit from remedial classes and additional learning time, which could positively impact their academic performance. The extra sessions are designed to provide additional support in crucial subjects like Language and Mathematics, potentially bridging gaps identified in recent assessments.
For teachers and administrative staff, the policy mandates regular working hours on Saturdays, ensuring consistency in the educational environment. Attendance for all teaching and non-teaching staff will be mandatory, underscoring the commitment to maintaining a structured educational framework.
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The implementation of this new schedule reflects a broader trend towards maximizing educational time and resources. While the move to a six-day academic week is intended to enhance learning opportunities, it also necessitates careful planning and adjustments from both students and educational staff.
The Ministry of Education’s decision emphasizes a commitment to improving educational standards and providing comprehensive support to students. As the policy takes effect, it will be closely monitored to assess its impact on student outcomes and overall educational effectiveness.
The new policy, effective from August 10, represents a significant change in the academic calendar for Islamabad’s public schools, reflecting a commitment to expanding educational opportunities and aligning school operations with broader government workweek policies.