Punjab Schools Reopening schedule 2026
The Punjab government has announced the extension of winter vacations for schools and colleges across the province. The decision aims to protect students from severe cold and harsh weather conditions. Authorities acted following advice from the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), which warned of unusually low temperatures in many areas of Punjab.
Parents and students are urged to follow official government announcements. Speculations on social media about school schedules have caused confusion. The government confirmed that schools will reopen on January 19, 2026, and urged the public not to trust unverified sources.
Public Opinion on Reopening Dates
A public poll shared by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat on X gathered over 25,000 responses. The poll asked citizens when schools and colleges should reopen after winter vacations.
- 83% favored reopening on January 19, 2026
- 17% supported reopening on January 12, 2026
The poll reflects public sentiment, not an official decision. It shows that most citizens support reopening after the extended break to ensure safety and health.
Official Winter Vacation Schedule
Originally, winter vacations in Punjab were set from December 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026. After reviewing weather conditions, the government extended the break to January 19, 2026. This extension ensures that students remain safe during extreme cold.
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| Original Vacation | Extended Vacation | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Dec 22 – Jan 10 | Dec 22 – Jan 19 | Severe cold and PDMA advisory |
The Education Minister clarified that the extension is based on expert advice and student safety. Families are encouraged to plan accordingly.
Teachers’ Union Recommendations
The Punjab Teachers’ Union has requested an extra 10 days of holidays for primary school students. The union cited severe cold and health concerns, including increased risk of pneumonia.
- Teachers urged the government to prioritize children’s health.
- They recommended making decisions quickly to prevent educational disruption.
The government continues to weigh public feedback alongside safety guidelines to maintain balance between learning and health.
Student Safety and Flexible Uniforms
To protect students during the cold spell, the Directorate of Public Instruction (DPI) Colleges issued a notification. Students are allowed to wear sweaters, jackets, coats, caps, and socks of any color.
- The policy remains effective until February 28, 2026
- It ensures students remain warm and comfortable during winter classes
The measure supports student health and reduces stress caused by rigid uniform rules in severe weather.
Government Guidance and Precautions
Authorities have emphasized relying only on official government channels for school updates. Parents and teachers are advised not to trust rumors circulating on social media.
- PDMA warned about harsh weather, especially at night and early mornings
- Families should take precautionary measures while traveling to schools
This guidance ensures safety for students, parents, and staff during the reopening period.
FAQs
Q1: When will Punjab schools reopen in 2026?
Schools and colleges in Punjab will reopen on January 19, 2026, after the extended winter break.
Q2: Why was the winter vacation extended?
The vacation was extended due to severe cold and PDMA warnings to protect students’ health.
Q3: Are flexible uniforms allowed for students?
Yes, students can wear sweaters, jackets, coats, caps, and socks of any color until February 28.
Q4: Can social media posts be trusted for school reopening dates?
No, only official government announcements should be followed for accurate information.
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