Punjab Winter Vacations Extended as Schools Stay Closed Longer
The Punjab government has extended Punjab winter vacations for all public and private educational institutions. Authorities announced the decision on Saturday due to ongoing cold weather. As a result, students will get an extra week of holidays.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat shared the update through an official statement. He explained that officials prioritized student health and safety. Therefore, the government delayed the reopening of schools and colleges.
Decision Based on Weather and Public Opinion
The education minister said severe weather conditions influenced the decision. In addition, the government conducted a public survey before finalising the move. Around 87 per cent of participants supported extending the holidays.
However, about 13 per cent favoured reopening schools earlier. Official data showed that 154,178 people voted for reopening institutions on January 19. Meanwhile, 24,829 supported reopening on January 12.
Hayat said public feedback played a key role in the final call. Therefore, authorities aligned the decision with public sentiment and safety concerns. He also directed district education officers to ensure proper implementation.
Clarification After Conflicting Statements
Earlier, confusion emerged over the holiday schedule. The minister had dismissed rumours about any extension. He also termed a circulating notification as fake at that time.
However, speaking later to Geo News, Hayat confirmed the extension. He clarified that the decision applies to all educational institutions across Punjab. As a result, schools and colleges will now reopen later than planned.
Winter vacations began on December 22, 2025. They were initially set to end on January 11. Now, institutions will reopen after an additional week off.
The government advised parents and students to rely on official announcements. Moreover, officials urged schools to follow updated instructions strictly. Authorities said
they would continue monitoring weather conditions.
