The Punjab government has officially announced a one-week extension of winter holidays for all schools, colleges, and educational institutions across the province due to severe cold weather and concerns over student health. As a result, classes will now resume on January 19 instead of the previously planned date of January 12.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat explained that the decision was made after consulting the public through a survey conducted on his official social media accounts. The minister emphasized that the extension reflects the government’s commitment to protecting students and prioritizing their well-being during the ongoing cold spell accompanied by dense fog.
“Considering public feedback and prevailing weather conditions, we decided to extend winter holidays in the best interest of students,” the minister said.
The survey results revealed overwhelming support for the move. According to official figures, 87 percent of respondents favored reopening educational institutions on January 19, while only 13 percent preferred classes to resume on January 12. In total, 154,178 votes supported the extended schedule, compared to 24,829 votes for the original reopening date.
Following the announcement, Minister Hayat directed all Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of Education in Punjab to ensure strict enforcement of the decision across their respective districts.
The extension has been widely welcomed by parents and students, who had expressed concerns about traveling and attending classes in freezing temperatures and low-visibility conditions caused by fog. Many parents appreciated the government’s proactive approach to student safety, noting that the additional week will help reduce health risks and ensure children can attend school comfortably.
Along with Punjab KP Govt Extends Winter Holidays, Announces New Timings
With this decision, the Punjab government has balanced academic schedules with student welfare, ensuring that education continues without compromising the safety and health of young learners during the harsh winter season.
