Lahore: In response to the intense heat wave gripping Punjab, authorities have decided to declare school holidays starting from May 25. The government’s education department has issued a notification mandating the closure of all government schools from May 25 to May 31. Summer vacations will then officially commence from June 1 until August 14.
Initially, private schools were exempted due to ongoing examinations, as announced by the Primary Education Minister. However, considering the heatstroke risks, the provincial education minister altered plans after considering public feedback. Consequently, the start of general summer vacations has been brought forward to May 25 instead of June 1.
Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat solicited input from parents on social media regarding the holiday decision. Over 7,000 responses were received, with 96 percent advocating for immediate school closures. Hayat emphasized that safeguarding students from severe weather conditions remains paramount. Conditional approval will be granted to private schools conducting examinations to remain open.