3-day weekend for students: How Sharjah policy changed school, family life

“I keep aside a whole day for schoolwork during the three-day weekend without interruptions and distractions, which has improved my overall performance,” said Aasiya Jukaku, student of 12th grade at Al Ansar International School in Sharjah.

A recent study by the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) showed that the three-day weekend has enhanced time management and productivity and helped students achieving quality learning outcomes. The study was conducted to measure the impact of the four-day work week on productivity and the quality of life in the educational community in Sharjah.

The study was conducted based on a survey completed by more than 7,000 educational and administrative staff as well as more than 31,000 families of over 70 nationalities, whose children attend 127 private schools in Sharjah.

“It also allows me to do my assignments with more enthusiasm and productivity, as I get enough time off. Moreover, it motivates me to make a schedule and follow it to manage my time efficiently,” said Jukaku.

Students said that the three-day weekend has benefited them in educating on how to manage between school life and home life effectively. “Many of my friends had issues bonding with their own family due to the pressure of studies or the time-consuming tasks the school gives. However, now they dedicate a whole day just to spend with their families, promoting a healthier home life,” said Hanaa Shabandri, 12th Year student at Brilliant International Private School, Sharjah.

With many students’ increased interest in extracurricular activities, the 3-day weekend boosts their motivation to try and start new leisure activities rather than spending time only on finishing assignments and homework. “Personally, I like exploring different novels and artwork to do during my free time. Still at the end of the weekend, I have enough time to complete my assignments, balancing my school life and my leisure time,” said Shabandri.

Mariam Al Naqbi, student in Year 9, GEMS Wesgreen International School, Sharjah, said that the long weekend helps her complete additional revisions and recap her lessons and has given her more time to complete pre-lesson preparation for the week ahead.

“The additional day has increased the flexibility to complete my homework and assignments. I now have the choice to complete my assignments at my own pace,” said Al Naqbi.

She added: “I enjoy having more time with family and friends, while also dedicating some time to study. My grandparents live very far away from my school in Khor Fakkan and it is great getting to spend more time with them. Also, there is that dedicated time to reflect, pray and attend mosque with family and friends,”

How have the schools benefitted?

School managements say that the duration of the school day has been slightly increased to ensure that the curriculum is completed.

A longer school day in a four-day week does have several benefits, say school principals.

“Firstly, for many parents it better aligns with working hours, making it easier for them to manage their schedules. Secondly, students have an extra day to rest and recharge, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. A longer weekend can also provide more time for family and extracurricular activities, which can contribute to overall well-being,” said James McDonald, principal/CEO, GEMS Wesgreen International School, Sharjah.

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