LAHORE – The Punjab government is likely to extend the winter vacations for schools after more than 80 percent participants of an online poll voted in favour of extension due to intensifying cold weather.
Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, recently conducted an online poll to gather public opinion on extending school holidays in the province after concerns were raised on her previous statement of not increasing winter holidays.
The poll, hosted on Facebook, specifically sought feedback from parents and teachers regarding when educational institutions should resume operations.
Winter Holidays Poll
According to the results, an overwhelming 86% of respondents supported reopening schools and colleges on January 19, 2026. In contrast, 14% of the participants favored reopening on January 12, 2026.
Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat shared that the purpose of this poll was to ensure that the government’s decision aligns with the public’s wishes and concerns. He emphasized that the final decision would be made soon, based on these results and other factors affecting the education sector.
A day earlier, Rana Sikandar Hayat rejected reports regarding an extension in winter holidays, saying all schools and colleges will open as per the schedule.
The minister took to social media platform, X, stating: “Schools & Colleges will Open on The 12th of January Inshallah”.
He urged people to “avoid fake news”.
Meanwhile, most cities across Punjab, including Rawalpindi, are experiencing a severe cold wave, raising concerns among parents as the winter holidays come to an end and schools are set to reopen next week, according to media reports.
The sharp drop in temperatures has made it increasingly difficult for parents to send their children to school early in the morning, with many expressing concern over the potential health risks.
The Meteorological Department has predicted a further drop in temperatures in the coming days, along with cold winds, fog, and low temperatures, exacerbating the problem.
Parents, particularly those with younger children, fear that the extreme cold could negatively affect their children’s health, with morning temperatures proving particularly harsh.
