The Punjab government has hinted at reviewing the academic calendar after private schools criticized the long summer vacations in the province.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, while talking to Samaa TV, said long vacations harm education and he agrees with the concerns raised by private schools.
He said a proposal to open schools on alternate Saturdays after summer vacations is under consideration. He added that the academic calendar will be prepared in consultation with private schools, adding that an alternative plan will also be made in case sudden holidays are announced.
Friday holiday also caused loss
The education minister said the Friday holiday has also caused educational loss. According to him, schools should remain open for 180 days in a year, but currently they are opening for only around 140 days.
Summer camps may be allowed
Rana Sikandar Hayat said the government is going to allow summer camps for 30 to 45 days. He said long breaks affect students’ studies, which is why alternative schedules and summer camps are being considered.
The minister said the decision on vacations must be made while keeping the entire province in mind. He added that the intensity of heat in South Punjab also has to be considered before finalizing any decision on school holidays.
Hayat said private schools have air conditioning, but government schools in south Punjab must also be taken care of. He said the government has to balance academic needs with weather conditions and facilities available across Punjab.
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