The Sindh Education and Literacy Department has issued an important clarification. Private schools across the province are not bound by the recently announced six-day working week rule. They can decide their own weekly teaching and working days according to their operational needs.
Why the Clarification Was Needed
Confusion had spread after an earlier notification on July 29 stated that all public and private schools under the department would operate from Monday to Saturday starting August 1, 2026.
The latest circular, issued by the Directorate of Inspection and Registration of Private Institutions on Friday, has now cleared the picture.
Official Statement
Additional Director Registration Rafia Javed stated:
“It is hereby clarified for all privately managed schools across the province of Sindh that they may manage their weekly working days according to their own schedules and operative convenience.”
In simple words, private schools are free to keep their Saturday closure or follow the six-day week, whatever suits them best.
College Rule Remains Unchanged
Separately, the College Education Department has issued a notification directing both public and private colleges under its control to follow the six-day working week. That rule remains in place.
Background of the Rule
- On March 31, the Sindh government had declared Saturday and Sunday holidays at educational institutions
- The move was part of austerity and fuel conservation measures
- Triggered by the economic impact of the US-Israeli war on Iran
- Meant only for students but ended up stopping teacher activities too, affecting curriculum completion
The six-day working week was later restored to help schools finish their annual syllabus. Now, private schools can go back to running on their own schedule.
What This Means for Parents
For parents of children in private schools:
- No forced Saturday classes if the school prefers a 5-day week
- Schools that already run Saturday classes will continue
- Weekend routines depend on each school’s own policy
- Public school students will attend classes on Saturdays
What Schools Can Do
Private school administrations can now:
- Decide the number of working days per week
- Set schedules based on syllabus needs
- Consider student and teacher preferences
- Follow their operational convenience
This flexibility gives private schools a clear edge in managing their own workflow, but it also means each school’s schedule may differ. Parents should confirm the weekly plan directly with their child’s school.
