Private schools across Punjab have raised strong concerns over the weekly Friday holiday and demanded its immediate removal.
The issue was discussed in a meeting chaired by Qazi Naeem Anjum, head of Pak Aiwan-e-Taleem, where stakeholders highlighted challenges affecting the education system.
Concern Over Academic Loss
During the meeting, participants emphasized that:
- Frequent holidays are reducing classroom learning time
- Students are facing academic loss
- At least 210 academic days are necessary for proper learning
They stressed that consistent physical classes are essential for student performance.
Online Classes Not Effective
Qazi Naeem Anjum stated that:
- Online classes cannot fully replace physical classroom learning
- Students struggle with focus and engagement in virtual setups
This has raised concerns about the overall quality of education.
Issue of Delayed Textbooks
Another major issue highlighted was:
- Delay in textbook printing and distribution
- Students missing important study time
Stakeholders urged authorities to ensure timely availability of books next year.
Demand for Policy Reconsideration
Private schools have requested:
- Removal of the Friday holiday policy
- Immediate steps to improve academic continuity
- Extension in school affiliations from the Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education Lahore
Who Attended the Meeting?
The meeting included several education stakeholders and representatives from private institutions, who collectively voiced concerns over current policies.
Final Words
The demand to end the Friday holiday reflects growing pressure from private schools to restore academic balance.
As debates continue, the government may need to reconsider policies to ensure students do not fall behind in their education.
