As winter tightens its grip across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the provincial government has officially adjusted school timings to protect students from extreme morning cold. The revised schedule applies to plain areas of KPK, where temperatures drop sharply during early hours, making travel difficult for children.
This change is meant to reduce health risks, improve attendance, and ease daily routines for families during the coldest weeks of winter.
What Has Changed in School Timings
Under the updated arrangement, schools will start later in the morning, allowing children to avoid the coldest part of the day. The revised timings take effect after winter vacations end and will remain in place until weather conditions improve.
New School Timings (Plain Areas of KPK)
-
Primary schools: 9:00 am to 1:30 pm
-
Middle, high & higher secondary schools: 9:00 am to 2:20 pm
These timings apply to government schools in plain districts, including areas such as Peshawar, Mardan, Charsadda, Nowshera, Swabi, Kohat, and Dera Ismail Khan.
Why the Timing Update Was Necessary
Education authorities reviewed weather reports showing:
-
Severe morning cold and fog
-
Increased cases of seasonal illness among children
-
Safety concerns for students who walk or use open transport
Starting school later helps ensure children arrive warmer, healthier, and more alert.
How Families Benefit (In Real Terms)
While there is no direct cash assistance, families experience clear financial and practical relief.
Money Saved by Parents
-
Less need for early-morning heating or fuel
-
Reduced medical expenses from cold-related illness
-
Lower transport reminders (rickshaws, vans, fuel)
For many households, this can mean saving Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 3,000 per month, depending on transport and heating use.
Benefits for Students and Schools
For Students
-
Better health and immunity
-
Improved focus in class
-
Safer commute during foggy mornings
For Schools
-
Higher attendance rates
-
Fewer sick leaves
-
Smoother academic flow after vacations
The goal is continuity without compromising safety.
What Parents and Students Should Do Now
-
Adjust daily routines to match the new timings
-
Ensure children still dress warmly
-
Follow school-specific notices for any minor variations
-
Avoid believing unofficial messages on social media
Any further changes will be communicated through official education channels.
Quick Overview
-
🌡️ Reason: Severe cold weather
-
🕘 New start time: 9:00 am
-
🏫 Applies to: Plain areas of KPK
-
💸 Indirect savings: Up to a few thousand rupees monthly
-
📅 Effective: After winter vacations
FAQs
Which areas of KPK are affected by the new school timings?
The revised schedule applies to plain districts, not mountainous or snow-bound regions.
Are private schools included in this update?
Government notifications apply to public schools; private schools often follow the same schedule, but parents should confirm locally.
Will school hours be reduced overall?
No. Only start times are adjusted to avoid early morning cold.
Is this change temporary or permanent?
It is temporary, linked to winter weather conditions.
Could timings change again if weather worsens?
Yes. Authorities may review schedules if conditions become more severe.
Final Note
The decision to revise school timings in KPK reflects a child-first approach during harsh winter conditions. By allowing a later start, the government is easing pressure on families, protecting student health, and keeping education on track—without disruption.
Parents are advised to stay connected with schools and rely only on official updates as winter continues.
