Saturday Holiday for Punjab School Students 2025 – PEF Announces New Timings & Latest Updates. As part of its major education reforms for 2025, the Punjab Education Foundation (PEF) has officially declared Saturday as a weekly holiday for all its partner schools. This decision brings relief to thousands of students and teachers who previously attended classes six days a week. Along with this announcement, PEF has also issued new school timings and revealed a large-scale recruitment campaign for 2025–26.
Saturday Declared an Official Holiday for All PEF Schools
In its latest notification, the Punjab Education Foundation confirmed that all PEF partner schools will now remain closed every Saturday. This new schedule has been implemented effective immediately.
The decision was taken keeping in view:
- Rising environmental challenges such as intense smog
- The need to reduce the academic burden on students
- Teachers’ increasing workload and mental fatigue
- Recommendations from district administrations
With smog levels rising across Punjab, the government aims to reduce the health risks students face during early-morning commutes.
New School Timings Announced for PEF Institutions
Along with the Saturday holiday, PEF has also issued revised school timings that will remain in place until April 15, 2026.
Updated PEF School Timings 2025–26
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday to Thursday | 8:45 AM – 1:30 PM |
| Saturday | 8:45 AM – 1:30 PM (Operational only when required in special cases) |
| Friday | 8:45 AM – 12:30 PM |
These timings have been set to:
- Align academic hours with seasonal climate
- Ensure student safety during smog season
- Improve school management efficiency
- Standardize PEF academic operations
PEF Announces Recruitment Drive for 2025 – 100+ Vacancies
The Punjab Education Foundation has also launched a provincial recruitment campaign to strengthen its operational capacity. Over 100 new positions have been announced across different departments.
Key Vacancies Announced
- Subject Specialists (8 positions)
- Network Support Engineers
- Executive Assistants
- Drivers – 10 positions with a monthly salary of Rs. 57,500
This hiring phase is part of Punjab’s broader strategy to upgrade educational infrastructure and improve learning outcomes for millions of students.
Tip: Eligible applicants should apply early, as PEF vacancies usually receive high competition.
Private Schools Under Watch for Violating Smog Policies
While PEF has strengthened safety rules, many private schools across Punjab have been found violating government instructions by organizing outdoor excursions during peak smog season.
Reported Non-Compliance Locations
Some private institutions reportedly took students to:
- Joyland Lahore
- Jallo Park
- Lahore Safari Park
- Lahore Zoo
These activities defy the Punjab government’s smog-control policy, which prohibits:
- Outdoor trips
- Student gatherings in open areas
- Recreational visits to public parks or entertainment venues
Authorities have warned that strict disciplinary action will be taken against schools violating environmental and student safety protocols.
Why the Saturday Holiday Matters – Benefits for Students & Teachers
The new holiday policy is expected to bring several positive outcomes:
Academic & Mental Health Relief
One less school day per week gives students time to rest, revise, and spend quality time at home.
Better Attendance
Reduced fatigue often leads to improved attendance and performance.
Teacher Workload Balance
Teachers gain extra time for lesson planning and administrative tasks.
Environmental Safety
Fewer school days during smog season help reduce exposure to health hazards.
Impact on Parents & School Communities
Parents across Punjab have welcomed the decision, stating that:
- Weekend rest will improve children’s overall well-being
- Morning traffic will reduce on Saturdays
- The policy supports families who prefer two-day weekends
PEF has directed school administrations to inform parents officially through circulars and SMS alerts.
Conclusion
The announcement of Saturday holiday, updated school timings, and a major recruitment initiative shows that the Punjab Education Foundation is actively modernizing the education model in 2025. These reforms aim to create a healthier, safer, and more efficient academic environment for both students and educators.
