CHITRAL: Parents of schoolchildren here have urged the Elementary and Secondary Education Department to reconsider newly introduced school timings.
From April 1, 2026, the Education Department has introduced a new four-day work week (Monday–Thursday) with a 7:30 am start time for government schools. Primary schools close at 1:35 pm, and middle/high schools at 3:00 pm, with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday designated as weekly holidays to manage energy.
However, parents were of the view that keeping students in schools for up to nine hours without proper nutrition would not improve academic performance and could instead have negative effects.
They said the new schedule is unrealistic and does not align with basic principles of educational psychology. They pointed out that around 75 percent of students in public schools walk long distances daily, with many leaving their homes up to an hour and a half early, often without breakfast.
The parents argued that extended school hours, without considering students’ physical and mental well-being, could be harmful rather than beneficial.
They called on policymakers to review the decision and adopt a more practical approach to ensure education remains accessible, effective, and supportive for children.
