LAHORE, August 8, 2025 — The Punjab government has officially extended summer vacations for schools across the province, citing the prolonged heatwave and growing health concerns for students.
The new reopening date has been set for September 1, pushing the return to classrooms two weeks beyond the previously scheduled mid-August timeline.
“This decision wasn’t taken lightly,” said Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat in a statement issued Thursday. “With temperatures soaring and no significant relief in sight, it’s crucial to prioritise the health and safety of both students and teachers.”
According to the minister, the extension follows a wave of requests from parents, school administrations, and medical experts who warned of the risks associated with reopening schools during extreme heat. A formal notification outlining the revised academic calendar is expected shortly.
This summer has seen record-breaking temperatures, with several areas—particularly in southern Punjab like Bahawalpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Multan—frequently exceeding 45°C. The Meteorological Department forecasts continued high temperatures through much of August.
Medical professionals have also flagged serious health risks for children, including dehydration and heatstroke, especially in schools lacking proper ventilation or cooling systems.
In response to the extended closure, officials from the School Education Department have begun drafting a revised academic plan. “We’re working on adjustments to make up for lost instructional time—possibly through extra classes or a shortened winter break,” a senior department officer shared.
While the decision has been largely welcomed by parents, private school owners expressed concern about the potential impact on learning outcomes and revenue.
“It’s a relief,” said Asma Tariq, a mother of two schoolchildren in Lahore. “You can’t expect kids to concentrate in classrooms that feel like ovens.”
However, a private school principal in Multan, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the delay poses financial challenges. “We understand the concern, but this affects our entire schedule and operations.”
Schools across Punjab have been instructed to remain closed until September 1, with any attempt to resume earlier being discouraged by the authorities.
This marks the second time in recent years that summer vacations have been extended in Punjab due to extreme weather conditions, pointing to the growing impact of climate change on education.
Meanwhile, amid concerns over monsoon flooding, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has issued fresh alerts. In the last 24 hours, heavy rains were recorded in Gujrat (86mm), Narowal (37mm), Multan (28mm), and other parts of Punjab.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia said the administration has been directed to stay vigilant, especially as a low-level flood warning remains in effect for the Indus River at Tarbela. Water levels in major dams like Tarbela (95%) and Mangla (62%) remain high, though currently stable.
According to PDMA data, 164 people have lost their lives this year due to rain-related incidents. The provincial government has begun disbursing financial assistance to affected families on the Chief Minister’s directives.
Citizens are urged to take precautions during the ongoing monsoon season.
