The recent decision taken by the Sindh government to extend school timings by one hour appears to be a minor adjustment, but in reality it is a disruption of family routines, women’s responsibilities and children’s health and wellbeing. Primary school children are among those most vulnerable to this change. By 1:30pm, many are already hungry and exhausted. Expecting them to remain in class until 2:30pm and concentrate without proper nourishment is impractical and harmful.

In many schools across the province, there are no proper buildings, fans or drinking water. Children struggle to survive long hours in the scorching heat in overcrowded or open air classrooms. Teachers, too, are forced to endure exhaustion and dehydration. Married women, especially those balancing jobs and household responsibilities related to their own children, face disproportionate challenges. The extended hours delay family routines, complicate childcare and add stress to already demanding schedules. For young unmarried women striving to break barriers, this policy has become yet another obstacle. Extended school hours encroach upon potential study time, prepara- tion for competitive exams and the balance that is needed to pursue ambitions beyond the classroom.

The restoration of Saturday holidays by the Sindh government is a commendable act and a welcome move, but its positive impact is undermined by the ill-considered extension of daily school hours. Educational reforms must be rooted in consultation. Parents, teachers and students should be heard before policies are enacted. Policy-makers should build on the positive step of reinstating Saturday holidays and re-consider the extension of daily school hours.

Sumera Mahar

Shikarpur