Officially, the Punjab government has decided to give all educational establishments both public and private one week of winter vacation in the entire province due to the ongoing cold wave and health reasons among students.
Saturday: The decision was announced by provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat who made it clear that the extended holidays are applicable to all schools and colleges in Punjab.
Public Survey Played a Key Role
The decision, as explained by the minister, was after a comprehensive survey done by the education department to the people. The results of the survey revealed that there was a massive support to postponing the reopening of institutions because of poor weather.
- 87 percent of the respondents were in favor of the lengthening of the winter break.
- On the earlier date of January 12, 13 per cent. preferred to reopen.
There is official data indicating that 154,178 and 24,829 votes were cast in support of reopening in January 19 and January 12 respectively.
According to Hayat, the move indicates the government interest in ensuring the safety of students in case of severe weather.
Implementation Ordered Across All Districts
The education minister instructed Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) of the district education authorities to make sure that the amended schedule is properly followed in the respective areas.
Earlier Rumours Declared False
One day before, Rana Sikandar Hayat had told viral social media reports that the winter holidays were being extended, which he described as fake. He had explained that the reopening of schools and colleges will happen on January 12 as per the previous schedule.
But, after the drastic fall in temperatures and active reactions of people, the government reconsidered the situation and proceeded to the extension.
Previous Schedule
Punjab vacations started on December 22, 2025, and they were originally scheduled to finish on January 11, 2026.
According to the latest ruling, students in all parts of the province will come back to the classes on January 19, 2026, should the weather conditions improve.
