Punjab Government Extends Winter Vacations Schools to Reopen on January 19 2026. The Punjab government has officially extended winter vacations after severe cold weather gripped the province.
Schools and colleges will now reopen on January 19, 2026, bringing clarity for parents, students, and teachers across Punjab.
This decision addresses public safety concerns and ends confusion caused by viral fake notifications.
Punjab Government Announces Winter Vacation Extension
Punjab Government confirmed the extension of winter holidays for all public and private schools and colleges after forecasts warned of extremely low temperatures.
The announcement came after widespread public discussion and weather advisories highlighting prolonged cold spells in the region.
Why Were Winter Vacations Extended?
The decision was based on:
- Persistent cold wave across Punjab
- Forecast of freezing temperatures in coming days
- Safety concerns for students, especially younger children
- Recommendations from disaster management authorities
According to officials, reopening schools earlier could have posed health risks.
Official Statement by Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat
Rana Sikandar Hayat shared the final decision through his verified social media account.
He stated that the extension was approved after consulting the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) and reviewing updated weather forecasts.
Provincial Disaster Management Authority advised caution due to the prolonged severe winter spell.
Reopening Date for Schools and Colleges in Punjab
Confirmed Reopening Schedule
| Institution Type | Reopening Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Schools (Public & Private) | January 19, 2026 | Fully Operational |
| Colleges | January 19, 2026 | Normal Week |
| Universities | As per notified schedules | Exams Continue |
“All colleges (public and private) shall re-open on Monday, January 19, 2026, resuming the full normal academic week.”
Higher Education Department Notification Explained
The Punjab Higher Education Department separately announced:
- Winter vacations for colleges were extended from January 10 to January 16
- BS 4-year programs will continue without disruption
- Exams will proceed as per boards and university schedules
This ensured academic continuity while protecting student welfare.
Fake Notifications Created Confusion
Earlier, a fake notification circulated widely on social media claiming vacations were extended until January 17.
This caused confusion among:
- Parents
- Students
- School administrations
The education department clarified that only official government channels should be trusted for announcements.
Public Opinion Played a Key Role
Interestingly, the education minister conducted a public poll on X (formerly Twitter), asking whether schools should reopen on:
- January 12
- January 19
The majority voted for January 19, reflecting strong public concern over cold weather conditions.
Original Winter Vacation Schedule in Punjab
Initially, winter holidays were announced as:
- December 22, 2025 – January 10, 2026
Due to worsening weather, authorities reconsidered and extended the break.
Sindh Government Also Revises School Timings
While Punjab extended vacations, the Sindh Government adopted a different approach.
New School Timings in Sindh
| Detail | Update |
|---|---|
| Start Time | 9:00 AM |
| Effective From | January 12 |
| Valid Until | January 26 |
| Closing Time | Unchanged |
The decision followed consultations between:
- Syed Sardar Ali Shah
- Murad Ali Shah
Weather Advisory Behind the Decision
Pakistan Meteorological Department forecasted:
- Cold and dry weather across Sindh and Punjab
- Minimum temperatures as low as 9°C
- Dense fog in several districts
Affected areas included Sukkur, Rohri, Larkana, Dadu, and surrounding regions.
Impact on Students and Parents
The extension provided:
- Relief to parents worried about early-morning travel
- Protection for children from cold-related illnesses
- Time for schools to prepare heating and safety measures
Most parents welcomed the move as practical and timely.
What Parents and Students Should Do Now
Key Guidelines
- Follow official education department updates only
- Prepare students for reopening on January 19
- Check school notices for uniform and timing updates
- Ensure children stay warm during early morning travel
FAQs
When will schools reopen in Punjab after winter vacations?
All public and private schools in Punjab will reopen on January 19, 2026.
Are colleges reopening on the same date?
Yes. All colleges will also reopen on January 19, 2026, resuming normal academic weeks.
Will exams be delayed due to winter holidays?
No. Exams will continue according to the schedules set by boards and universities.
Why were winter vacations extended in Punjab?
Due to severe cold weather forecasts and recommendations from PDMA for student safety.
Did Sindh also extend school holidays?
No. Sindh revised school timings instead, with schools opening at 9:00 AM until January 26.
Conclusion
The Punjab government’s decision to extend winter vacations until January 19, 2026 reflects a balanced approach between academic continuity and student safety.
