In recent days, social media has been flooded with rumors claiming that the Punjab government has cancelled the weekly Saturday holiday for schools. Parents, teachers, and students across the province have been confused about whether schools will now open six days a week.
To clear the confusion, the Punjab Education Department has officially shared its position regarding school holidays and winter timings for 2026.
Punjab Schools Winter Schedule 2026 – Official Update
The Punjab government has finalized a new winter timing schedule for all public and private schools in the province. This revised schedule is part of routine seasonal adjustments to ensure students’ safety and comfort during cold weather.
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Winter timings start: October 20, 2026
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Schedule duration: Until March 2026
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Applies to: Government and private schools across Punjab
The change only affects school hours, not the number of working days.
Saturday Holiday Rumors – What Is the Truth?
Several posts circulating on WhatsApp and Facebook claimed that schools in Punjab would now open on Saturdays.
However, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has clearly rejected these rumors.
➡ Saturday will remain a weekly holiday for all schools in Punjab.
No official notification has been issued to cancel Saturday holidays, and any such claims are false and misleading.
Chief Minister’s Approval Status
According to official sources, the winter timing proposal has already been presented to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif. Formal approval and notification are expected shortly, but the proposal does not include any change to weekly holidays.
Why Winter Timings Are Introduced
The Education Department revises school timings every year to:
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Protect students from extreme cold
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Improve attendance during winter months
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Ensure smooth academic activities
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Reduce early-morning travel risks
These changes are routine and do not affect school holidays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the new winter school timings start in Punjab?
They will start from October 20, 2026, and remain effective until March 2026.
Q2: Has the Saturday holiday been cancelled?
No. Saturday remains a weekly holiday for all schools.
Q3: Does the new schedule apply to private schools as well?
Yes, it applies to both public and private schools across Punjab.
Q4: Who confirmed that Saturday will remain off?
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat officially confirmed it.
Q5: Will school hours be shorter in winter?
Yes, winter timings usually adjust start and closing hours to suit cold weather.
Conclusion
The Punjab Education Department has not cancelled the Saturday holiday for schools. Only winter timings are being adjusted for the 2026 season, while the weekly holiday structure remains unchanged. Parents and students are advised to rely only on official government announcements and avoid misinformation spread on social media.
Schools across Punjab will continue operating five days a week, ensuring stability and comfort during the winter months.
This content is published for general information and awareness purposes. kixxoil.pk is an independent informational website and is not officially connected with any government authority or public institution. Readers are encouraged to confirm details directly from official sources before making any decisions.
