Recent developments in school timetables have worried the parents in Rawalpindi. This is a result of local administration that has modified the timings to start classes one hour earlier than the previous ones.
This is a strategic approach for a traffic control issue arising from ongoing construction work at Kachehri Chowk, which includes a major underpass project, a suspended bridge, and other key structures.
A good number of parents have come together in a group and have officially endorsed and submitted an appeal to the Deputy Commissioner. They stated that the school hours of 8:45 a.m. or 9:00 a.m. should be reinstated. The parents have a valid point.
Considering, there is also an issue of tense and heavily congested fog, lack of school coaches, and public services early in the morning.
Teaching is faced with the similar issues. Teachers claim many pupils come to school already exhausted and not paying any attention.
The coldness of winter has its consequences is rough on the pupils. The younger students seem to be the most affected.
Some doze off, claiming they do not have the energy to stay awake, and others appear to be in a trance. Teachers believe this new system is more damaging than beneficial.
An option is available. The change in timetable for the schools is not the only solution. Changing the working hours for the government offices could be an option.
Parents suggested this would reduce traffic without changing student’s timetables. Majority of the parents believe that children health and comfort should come first.
Winters in Rawalpindi can become very difficult. The mornings are very cold and dark. Parents do not support waking up children early during such difficult conditions. After this parents are going to wait for a reply from the administration. They have said if the administration ignores it, they will send their kids to nearby public schools.
