The Punjab government has revised its earlier decision on school summer vacations. Senior students will now return to school from August 18, instead of September 1.
Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat announced the change after meeting with education experts. He said the early reopening will help prevent academic delays for higher classes.
Senior Students Return Early
According to the updated schedule, students from the following classes will resume studies on August 18:
- 9th and 10th grade
- O Level and A Level
- Intermediate (FA/FSc)
This decision applies to both public and private schools across Punjab.
Younger Students Continue Vacation
Students from grades 1 to 8 will return to school on September 1. This schedule remains in place due to ongoing heatwave concerns in the province.
The Punjab government had originally extended summer holidays for all students until September 1 to protect children from high temperatures.
Safety Measures Required in Schools
The School Education Department has issued guidelines for schools reopening early. Institutions must:
- Provide clean drinking water
- Ensure good ventilation
- Adjust school hours to avoid peak heat
These steps aim to ensure student safety during hot weather.
Policy Applies to All Schools
The Punjab government clarified that the new policy is mandatory for all educational institutions. Schools must follow the revised schedule and prepare for the return of senior classes.
Officials say they will continue to monitor the weather. Any further adjustments will be made if needed.
The decision comes as part of the government’s effort to balance health concerns with the need to maintain academic progress.
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