The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has officially announced new winter timings for colleges and government-run schools in Islamabad. The updated schedule will be followed across the federal capital from December 1, 2025, to January 31, 2026.
This decision was made in response to falling temperatures, increased fog, smog, and shorter daylight hours, ensuring the safety, comfort, and academic continuity of students and staff.
All Islamabad Model Schools and Colleges, both in urban and rural areas, must follow the revised timetable without exception.
🏫 New Timings for Single-Shift Institutions
For single-shift schools and colleges, the updated schedule is as follows:
- Monday to Thursday: 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Friday: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM
- Montessori & Prep Classes: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM (throughout the week)
These reduced hours are designed to protect younger students from extreme cold during early mornings and late afternoons.
👶 Updated ECE (Early Childhood Education) Timings
ECE classes have been divided into staggered groups to reduce overcrowding and make learning easier for small children:
- ECE-I: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- ECE-II: 11:30 AM – 2:30 PM
This system improves classroom management and ensures a comfortable learning environment during the winter season.
🏫 Timings for Double-Shift Institutions
Schools and colleges with two daily shifts will follow separate timings:
✅ Morning Shift
- Monday to Thursday: 8:15 AM – 1:15 PM
- Friday: 8:15 AM – 12:15 PM
✅ Evening Shift
- Monday to Thursday: 1:15 PM – 6:00 PM
- Friday: 2:30 PM – 6:00 PM
Ending classes before complete darkness helps students who rely on public transport or travel from distant areas.
🎓 Postgraduate Colleges – Flexible Hours
Postgraduate colleges under FDE may operate from:
- 8:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Up to 4:00 PM (depending on academic requirements)
Colleges are allowed flexibility to manage labs, practical sessions, and research activities, as long as student safety remains the priority.
❄️ Why Were New Timings Announced?
The Islamabad winter season 2025–26 is expected to be colder than usual. The FDE revised the schedule to address:
- Sudden drop in morning temperatures
- Dense fog & visibility issues
- Increased flu & cold cases
- Traffic congestion in early hours
- Parental and teacher requests
- Shorter daylight hours
- Smog and fog patterns in December & January
These preventive steps aim to improve attendance, reduce health risks, and ensure safe commuting.
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✅ Instructions for Schools
The FDE has directed institutions to:
- Ensure strict compliance
- Provide proper heating arrangements
- Maintain classroom ventilation
- Monitor attendance regularly
- Avoid unnecessary early-morning activities
- Follow winter safety guidelines
Area Education Officers (AEOs) will conduct regular inspections. Any school not following the schedule may face administrative action.
👨👩👧 Advice for Parents
Parents are advised to:
- Send children in warm, layered clothing
- Avoid sending sick children
- Ensure safe pick-and-drop timing
- Stay updated through school WhatsApp groups
- Teach children basic winter precautions and hygiene
📌 Final Thoughts
The decision that Islamabad announces new winter timings for colleges and schools is a timely and responsible move by the Federal Directorate of Education. By adjusting hours for single-shift, double-shift, Montessori, Prep, and ECE classes, the government has prioritized student safety, health, and smooth academic continuation.
This updated schedule will help thousands of students face the harsh winter months with more comfort and reduced risk, while maintaining the flow of education in the Islamabad education system.