Reports suggesting that the Punjab government was considering winter holidays extended for schools and colleges have caused confusion across the province. The speculation came amid persistent cold weather and warnings from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA).
Social media and messaging platforms circulated claims that authorities might extend the vacation schedule to protect students from harsh winter conditions. Parents and students rushed to seek clarification from officials, concerned about early-morning school timings and safety.
However, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat clarified on January 4 that these reports were false and misleading. He confirmed that all public and private schools and colleges in Punjab will reopen as scheduled on January 12, 2026. He urged the public to rely only on official announcements.
The official winter vacation schedule, announced by the Punjab Education Department, runs from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026, for all public and private educational institutions. Despite the notification, some private schools reportedly ignored the schedule and asked students to resume classes early via WhatsApp messages.
In response, the District Education Authority (DEA) in Lahore took strict action against schools violating the official schedule. Three private schools in Shahdara, Bedian Road, and Sabzazar were sealed for reopening before the end of winter holidays. Principals of these schools were summoned for questioning.
The DEA warned that any private school operating before the scheduled reopening date would face immediate action. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat reiterated that no school is allowed to open before the official end of the vacations. He emphasized that CEOs of the respective districts would enforce compliance strictly.
Officials said that while the rumors about winter holidays extended created panic, authorities are committed to ensuring safety and adherence to the official schedule. Students and parents have been advised to follow government notifications and avoid acting on unverified reports.
The incident highlights the importance of official communication and strict enforcement in maintaining the integrity of school schedules. Authorities continue to monitor private schools closely to prevent any violations of the announced winter vacation period.
In other news read more about Punjab Schools May Get Longer Winter Holidays Due To Cold Wave
With cold weather expected to persist, parents are encouraged to take precautions while relying on verified updates from the Punjab Education Department.
