A public poll conducted by the Punjab government has shown strong support for extending winter holidays for schools across the province. The poll, initiated by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, was aimed at gathering public opinion on whether educational institutions should reopen on the scheduled date or if the ongoing cold conditions warrant an extension of the winter break.
The poll was shared on the minister’s official Facebook page and received a large response from parents, students, and members of the public. According to the results, an overwhelming majority of participants favored extending winter holidays. Nearly 88 percent of respondents voted in support of prolonging the break, while only 12 percent preferred reopening schools as originally planned.
In numerical terms, 42,256 people supported the extension of winter holidays, whereas 6,457 participants voted for schools to resume classes on schedule. The results reflect growing public concern over student health and safety due to the prevailing cold weather conditions in many parts of Punjab.
Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat stated that the feedback collected through the poll would be carefully reviewed before reaching a final decision. He emphasized that public opinion, along with weather forecasts, will play an important role in determining whether schools will reopen or continue with extended winter holidays.
At the same time, the Punjab School Education Department has issued a warning to educational institutions regarding compliance with newly notified school working hours. Authorities have made it clear that strict action will be taken against schools that violate the revised timings, as the government aims to safeguard students during the cold spell.
The final announcement regarding the extension of winter holidays is expected in the coming days. Officials will assess current weather conditions and public feedback before making a formal decision on the reopening of schools across the province.
In another news, read more about Schools across Punjab reopen following summer vacations
