Reports suggesting that the Punjab government is considering an extension in winter holidays for schools and colleges have triggered confusion across the province, particularly as cold weather conditions persist.
However, the provincial government has clarified that no such decision has been taken.
Speculation began circulating on social media and messaging platforms claiming that the Punjab government was reviewing the winter vacation schedule due to harsh weather conditions.
The reports suggested that authorities might extend holidays for educational institutions, prompting parents and students to seek clarification from officials.
The confusion emerged amid warnings of severe winter conditions issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), which advised citizens to remain cautious during the cold spell affecting several parts of the country.
The weather alerts added to concerns among parents, especially regarding early-morning school timings and student safety.
Addressing the situation on January 4, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat dismissed reports of a holiday extension, calling them false and misleading.
He confirmed that all public and private schools and colleges in Punjab will reopen as scheduled on January 12, 2026, urging the public to rely only on official announcements.
Official winter vacation schedule
Earlier, the Punjab Education Department had officially announced winter vacations from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026, for all public and private educational institutions.
Despite the notification, several private schools reportedly failed to fully observe the break, allegedly instructing students via WhatsApp messages to resume classes from January 6.
On the other hand, the District Education Authority (DEA) has launched action against private schools in Lahore that reopened before the official end of winter vacations, sealing three institutions and summoning their principals for violating government directives.
Action taken against violating schools
According to the District Education Authority, several private schools resumed classes before winter holidays officially ended, prompting immediate enforcement action.
Three private schools located in Shahdara, Bedian Road, and Sabzazar were sealed for non-compliance, the authority confirmed.
The DEA said principals of the violating schools have been summoned and will be questioned over their decision to reopen prematurely.
Officials warned that strict action would be taken against any private institution found defying the officially announced vacation schedule.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat reiterated that no private school is allowed to open before the end of winter vacations.
He stated that if any school is found operating in violation of government orders, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Education concerned will take immediate action against the institution.
