Private Schools Demand Extension of Winter School Timings. Private schools in Karachi have raised an important request for students and parents. They want school opening times to stay at 9:00 am until January 31. This request comes because of the ongoing cold wave affecting the city and other parts of Sindh.
The demand was shared by the All Sindh Private Schools and Colleges Association. The association believes that early morning school timings are causing problems for children, teachers, and families during this cold weather.
Cold Weather Is Disrupting Daily Life
Karachi is known for its mild climate. Extreme cold is not common here. But this winter has been different. Cold winds and low temperatures have affected daily routines.
Early mornings feel much colder than usual. Many students leave home before sunrise. At that time, the air is cold and uncomfortable.
For young children, this is harder. They wait for transport or walk to school in the cold. Some students get sick. Others feel tired before classes even start.
Teachers face the same issue. Cold weather reduces energy and focus. This affects the learning environment in classrooms.
Problems in Remote Areas of Sindh
The association also highlighted problems in remote districts of Sindh. These areas are colder than Karachi.
In many villages, schools lack heating facilities. Classrooms are simple. Windows are open. Cold air enters easily.
Students in these areas often travel long distances. Some walk or use basic transport. Early school timings make things worse.
Because of this, attendance drops. Parents hesitate to send children early in the morning.
Request to Keep Schools Opening at 9 am
The association has clearly asked the government to keep the 9 am school opening time until January 31.
- Their view is simple. A one-hour delay can make a big difference.
- Think of it like this.
If you wake up later on a cold day, you feel better. The sun is up. The air is warmer. Your body feels more active. - The same logic applies to students.
Call for an Emergency Meeting
- The chairman of the association has called for an immediate meeting of the Private Schools Steering Committee.
- This committee decides school policies and academic calendars. The chairman wants quick decisions.
- He believes delays will harm both schools and students.
- A clear decision will help everyone plan better.
Appeal to the Sindh Education Minister
- The association has also urged the Sindh education minister to act quickly.
- They want official approval to continue the delayed opening time.
- Schools do not want confusion. Parents need clear instructions. Students need stability.
- A formal notification can solve many problems.
Exams Are Near. Time Is Limited.
- Another major concern raised by the association is about exams.
- The academic year is almost over. Final exams are approaching fast.
- Teachers are rushing to complete syllabi. Students are under pressure.
- In such a situation, uncertainty makes things worse.
Demand for Early Release of Exam Syllabi
The chairman also demanded early issuance of:
- Uniform examination syllabi
- Paper patterns
- Marking schemes
These details are very important.
Without them, teachers cannot plan lessons properly. Students do not know what to prepare.
It is like preparing for a trip without knowing the destination.
Why Exam Delays Hurt Students
When exam details are delayed, students feel anxious.
They ask questions like:
- Which chapters are included?
- What type of questions will come?
- How much time is left?
Teachers also feel stressed. They want to guide students correctly.
Clear exam guidelines reduce fear and confusion.
Impact on School Planning
Schools plan months ahead.
- They schedule revision classes.
- They arrange mock exams.
- They set internal assessments.
If exam details come late, all plans collapse.
This affects results. It also affects the confidence of students.
Parents Support the Demand
- Many parents support the request for extended winter timings.
- Parents worry about their children’s health. Cold weather leads to flu, cough, and fever.
- Medical costs increase. Absenteeism rises.
- A small timing change can reduce these issues.
Health and Learning Go Together
- Healthy students learn better.
- When children feel cold and tired, they cannot focus.
- Late arrivals become common. Discipline suffers.
- A comfortable routine helps students stay active and alert.
Schools Want Stability, Not Conflict
- Private schools are not trying to create conflict.
- Their goal is cooperation.
- They want to work with authorities for the benefit of students.
- Clear decisions help everyone move forward smoothly.
What Can Authorities Do Now?
Authorities can take simple steps:
- Approve 9 am opening time till January 31
- Announce exam syllabi immediately
- Share paper patterns clearly
- Communicate decisions through official notices
These steps require no major resources. Only timely action.
Students Need Support, Not Pressure
- Education is already stressful.
- Weather should not add extra pressure.
- Students need a safe and supportive environment to learn and grow.
Conclusion
The demand by private schools to extend winter school timings is practical and student-focused. Cold weather has disrupted normal routines across Sindh. Keeping schools open at 9 am until January 31 can protect student health and improve learning. At the same time, early release of exam syllabi will reduce stress and confusion. Quick action by authorities can bring clarity, comfort, and confidence to students, parents, and schools alike.
