All educational institutions working under the ambit of the Federal Directorate of Education, Islamabad shall remain open every Saturday, the department said on Thursday as it ended the holiday.

“The decision would come into effect from August 10 [Saturday],” the directorate said in a statement issued to all heads of institutions in Islamabad model schools, colleges and rural areas.

“This initiative is intended for remedial classes, foundational literacy, and the promotion of healthy activities such as sports and mind games,” it said.

All the staff members are required to observe regular working hours on Saturdays. “The sessions shall be conducted for two hours and are optional for students,” it said.

The move is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing the productivity and efficiency of the federal education system, which has been impacted by the extended weekend holidays.