Federal Directorate of Education Announces Winter Timings for Islamabad Schools

Federal Directorate of Education Announces Winter Timings for Islamabad Schools

In a move to ensure the well-being of students and staff during the colder months, the Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has officially announced revised working hours for all educational institutions under its jurisdiction within the federal capital. The new winter schedule is set to take effect from December 1st, 2025 and will remain in place until January 31st, 2026 .

The directive, issued to all heads of institutions, outlines distinct timing structures for single-shift and double-shift schools, aiming to accommodate the shorter daylight hours and challenging weather conditions typical of a Pakistani winter.

Key Details of the New Winter Schedule

The FDE's notification provides a clear and structured timetable to avoid any confusion among parents, students, and school administrations.

For Single-Shift Schools:

• Regular Days (Monday to Thursday): School timings will be from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

• Friday: Schools will operate from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. , aligning with the shorter workday often observed on Fridays.

For Double-Shift Schools:

• Morning Shift: The first session will now run from 8:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

• Evening Shift: The second session will commence immediately after, from 1:15 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

The FDE has issued a strict directive for the immediate implementation of these new timings starting from the first day of December. School administrations have been instructed to communicate this change effectively to parents and guardians to ensure a smooth transition.

Rationale Behind the Seasonal Change

The adjustment of school hours with the changing seasons is a standard practice adopted by educational authorities worldwide. The primary reasons cited for this annual shift include:

1. Student Safety and Health: Colder mornings, often accompanied by fog, can pose health risks for children, including respiratory issues. Starting slightly later, or ensuring children are not traveling in the dark during the evening, minimizes exposure to harsh weather conditions.

2. Improved Learning Conditions: Adequate daylight is crucial for a conducive learning environment. The revised schedule ensures that a significant portion of the school day occurs in natural daylight, which can enhance concentration and reduce reliance on artificial heating and lighting in the initial hours.

3. Logistical Convenience: For parents, managing school commutes during winter can be challenging. The adjusted timings, particularly the earlier closure on Fridays, provide better alignment with typical work schedules and ease traffic congestion during peak hours in the morning.

An official from the FDE, speaking on the condition of anonymity, stated, "The well-being of our students is our top priority. This schedule is designed to ensure that children can travel to and from school in safer, brighter conditions. It is a proactive measure that has been well-received in previous years."

Parental and School Response

Initial reactions from the parent community and school administrations have been largely positive, viewing the move as a necessary and student-centric decision.

Mrs. Ayesha Raza, a parent of two children in a single-shift school, commented, "I was relieved to hear the announcement. The thought of sending my young children to school in the dark and cold was worrying. This 8:30 a.m. start is much more manageable and safer."

School principals have also welcomed the clarity provided by the FDE. Mr. Tariq Mahmood, Principal of a model school in F-10/2, confirmed, "We have received the circular and have already begun informing our parent body through text messages and social media. Our staff is prepared to adjust the academic schedule accordingly to ensure the curriculum is completed without disruption."

A Look at the Academic Calendar

The winter timings are a fixed component of the FDE's annual academic calendar. The period from December to the end of January typically experiences the coldest weather in Islamabad and surrounding areas. The reversion to standard or summer timings is usually announced in February, coinciding with the onset of milder weather.

Educational experts suggest that such adaptations are essential for a holistic education system. Dr. Hina Alvi, an educationist, noted, "Adapting institutional schedules to environmental and climatic realities is a sign of a responsive education system. It acknowledges that student performance is intrinsically linked to their physical comfort and safety. This decision by the FDE is both pragmatic and compassionate."

Key Takeaways for Stakeholders

As the December 1st implementation date approaches, here are the essential points for all stakeholders to remember:

• Effective Period: The winter timings are from December 1 to January 31 .

• Single-Shift Schools: 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. (Monday-Thursday); 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. (Friday).

• Double-Shift Schools: Morning shift (8:15 a.m. - 1:15 p.m.); Evening shift (1:15 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.).

• Mandatory Compliance: All FDE-affiliated schools must adhere to the new schedule without delay.

Parents are advised to confirm the specific timings directly with their children's schools, as individual institutions may issue their own circulars with additional details. The FDE has ensured that this structured approach will help maintain academic consistency while prioritizing the health and safety of the educational community during the winter season in Islamabad.