LAHORE— In a significant update, the Punjab government has officially announced an extension of winter vacations for all educational institutions across the province. The decision comes in direct response to severe weather warnings and aims to ensure student safety.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed the extension, stating that the government is prioritizing the health and safety of students amid a forecasted prolonged cold spell.
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Key Details of the Extension of Winter Vacations:
- New Reopening Date: All public and private schools and colleges will now reopen on Monday, January 19, 2026.
- Reason for Extension: The decision was made based on an advisory from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), which warned of extremely low temperatures and harsh weather conditions expected in the coming week.
- Official Channel: The minister reiterated that all official announcements are made through authorized government channels only, advising the public to disregard earlier speculation on social media.
Background and Official Advisory
This announcement reverses the previous stance of no extension. The government’s shift in decision underscores the severity of the weather forecast. The PDMA has issued alerts regarding the intense cold, particularly during night and early morning hours, which pose risks to children commuting to educational institutions
Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat emphasized, “The well-being of our students is paramount. Extending the vacation is a precautionary measure to protect them from the severe cold wave.”
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Public Advisory: Avoid Unverified Information
In light of recent rumors, the Punjab Education Department has strongly advised parents, students, and staff to:
- Rely solely on official press releases and government statements for accurate schedule information.
- Avoid sharing or believing unverified claims circulating on social media platforms.
- Take necessary precautions to stay warm and safe during the ongoing cold weather.
This extension provides clarity after days of uncertainty and ensures a unified academic schedule while safeguarding students from health hazards associated with the extreme winter conditions.
