The caretaker Punjab cabinet has given its approval to temporarily close all educational institutions across the province in preparation for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Caretaker Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi announced the decision, stating that from February 6th to February 9th, both public and private schools, colleges, and universities in Punjab will be closed to facilitate the electoral process scheduled for February 8th.
Emphasizing the importance of this move, Naqvi mentioned that until February 3rd, schools will adhere to a special timing of 9:30 am. Following this period, regular school timings will be reinstated. The decision comes after the caretaker government’s earlier directive on January 8th, which permitted schools operating in a single shift to conduct classes from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Schools with double shifts were instructed to implement the first shift from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm, and the second shift from 1:45 pm to 5:30 pm.
In addition to these measures, on January 20th, the School Education Department extended the revised timings for schools, taking into consideration the extreme cold and smog conditions prevailing in the province. The decision to close educational institutions during the election period aims to ensure the safety and security of students and staff, as well as to facilitate the smooth conduct of the electoral process.
As the 12th general election approaches after months of delays, the caretaker government is taking proactive steps to manage the operational aspects of educational institutions during this crucial time. The temporary closure aligns with the government’s commitment to prioritizing the democratic process and creating an environment conducive to free and fair elections.
