Author: Hamza Shahnawaz

Private schools in Karachi and other parts of Sindh will continue to start classes at 9:00 am as the provincial government extends its special winter timings policy amid an ongoing cold wave.

The decision comes as colder-than-usual weather continues to disrupt daily routines, particularly in Karachi and remote districts of Sindh.

According to an official notification issued by the School Education and Literacy Department, Government of Sindh, the revised timings for all public and private educational institutions under its administrative control will remain in effect until February 4, 2026. The notification, issued in continuation of an earlier directive dated January 10, 2026, confirms that no changes will be made to school schedules until the mentioned date.

Earlier, private schools in Karachi had independently recommended keeping school opening times at 9:00 am until January 31 due to the cold spell. The All Sindh Private Schools and Colleges Association (ASPSCA) had highlighted that harsh weather conditions were affecting attendance and normal life, especially in rural and colder regions of the province.

The association’s chairman emphasized that students, particularly young children, were struggling to attend early morning classes in low temperatures. He also called for an urgent meeting of the Private Schools Steering Committee to discuss adjustments to the academic calendar if cold conditions persist. Additionally, the chairman urged the Sindh education minister to formally approve the continuation of 9:00 am school timings to ensure student safety and well-being.

With the latest government notification, the recommendation has effectively been backed by official policy, bringing clarity for parents, students, and school administrations. Education officials stated that the move aims to minimize health risks for children while maintaining academic continuity during the winter season.

Parents across Karachi have largely welcomed the decision, saying it allows children more rest and reduces exposure to cold early in the morning. School administrations have also expressed relief, noting that uniform timings across public and private institutions help avoid confusion.

The Sindh government has advised schools to remain alert to weather updates and follow any further instructions issued by the education department. If weather conditions worsen, authorities may review the policy again in consultation with relevant stakeholders.

For now, all schools in Sindh will continue following the adjusted winter timings until February 4, 2026, as officially notified by the provincial government.