Punjab students return to classrooms sooner this summer

Punjab government- (Special Correspondent/Web desk) In a new policy change, the Punjab government has decided to reopen schools for classes 9 and 10, O Level, A Level, and Intermediate students from August 18. This reverses its earlier decision to keep summer holidays going until September.

Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said the decision was made after consulting education experts. They advised starting senior classes earlier to prevent learning gaps and avoid academic disruption.

The updated order will apply to both public and private schools across the province. Education authorities have directed all institutions to follow heatwave safety measures, such as providing clean drinking water, ensuring proper ventilation, and adjusting school hours if needed.U.S. & Pakistan Reaffirm Counterterrorism Cooperation in Latest Dialogue

Just last week, the Punjab government had announced an extension of summer vacations for all public and private schools due to the ongoing heatwave. The School Education Department had instructed students to return to classrooms on September 1.

The earlier extension was aimed at protecting students from extreme heat and its potential health risks. Schools, which were initially planned to reopen in mid-August, were to remain closed for the entire month to ensure children’s safety.