Confusion swept across Punjab as messages circulated on social media claiming changes to the winter vacation schedule for schools and colleges, raising concerns among parents, students, and educators. The rumors suggested an extension of the break, leading to uncertainty about when academic activities would resume.
In response to the growing confusion, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat issued an official clarification. In a statement shared on social media, he confirmed that schools and colleges would reopen as per the previously announced schedule on January 12, 2026. The minister emphasized that no changes had been officially made to the winter vacation period, urging the public to rely only on verified sources of information.
The clarification came after a notification began circulating online, falsely suggesting that the government had extended the winter break. Officials stressed that this information was not authentic and highlighted the need to avoid spreading unverified messages. Earlier in the week, the education minister had also dismissed similar claims, reaffirming that holidays for educational institutions would not be prolonged and advising citizens to be cautious of fake news.
According to the Punjab government’s official schedule, winter vacations for all public and private schools and colleges were set from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026. Academic activities were scheduled to resume on January 12, 2026, as planned. Authorities reiterated that there had been no amendments to this schedule, and the reopening date remains unchanged.
In recent notification, Punjab Denied Rumors of School Holidays Extension
The Punjab government’s timely clarification aims to calm confusion among students and parents, ensuring that everyone is aware of the official reopening date. By addressing misinformation swiftly, officials hope to prevent further panic and help schools and colleges prepare for the resumption of classes on the scheduled date. This episode highlights the importance of relying on credible announcements in the age of social media.
