The Punjab School Education Department is deliberating on eliminating the Saturday holiday for schools, aiming to offset the impact of the shortened academic year caused by smog-related closures and other unplanned holidays. This potential move, reported by 24NewsHD TV channel, would extend the school week to six days instead of the current five.
Addressing a Shrinking Academic Year
Educationists have raised alarms about the reduction in instructional days. Due to various unplanned holidays, the academic calendar for schools in Punjab has dwindled to 112 days, far below the international standard of 245 days. This substantial decrease is raising concerns about the quality of education, particularly for students in grades 9 and 10, who face high-stakes examinations.
Factors Contributing to Academic Year Reduction
- Smog-Related Closures:
- For the first time, schools in Punjab were closed in early November due to hazardous smog levels.
- Smog continues to disrupt educational activities, with experts predicting further closures if the situation persists.
- Extended Winter Breaks:
- In recent years, winter vacations have been extended, further cutting into the academic year.
- Unplanned Holidays:
- Other unforeseen closures, such as public holidays, have exacerbated the problem, leaving little room to adjust the academic schedule.
Challenges in Education Delivery
The disruptions have created significant obstacles in maintaining education quality:
- Teacher Availability:
The government has declined to summon teachers during holidays, limiting efforts to compensate for lost time. - Ineffective Online Learning:
Conducting online classes remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas with limited internet access. - Increased Pressure on Students:
Students, especially those in examination grades, face mounting stress due to reduced preparation time.
Proposed Solution: Six-Day School Week
To address the growing academic deficit, the Punjab government is considering a six-day school week. This adjustment aims to:
- Recover Lost Time:
Ensure students receive adequate instructional hours to meet learning objectives. - Support Examination Readiness:
Provide additional time for critical grade 9 and 10 students to prepare for board exams. - Boost Academic Performance:
Counter the negative impact of a shortened academic year on overall learning outcomes.
Conclusion
The proposal to eliminate Saturday holidays underscores the Punjab government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted learning opportunities for students. While the six-day school week is a significant adjustment, it may be a necessary step to mitigate the effects of smog-related disruptions and safeguard the quality of education.
Stay tuned for updates on this and other educational reforms shaping the future of Punjab’s students.