Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has announced the summer vacation schedule for schools across the province. The decision comes as temperatures continue rising in several cities.
According to the minister, summer vacations will begin on May 22, 2026. Schools will reopen on August 24 after a break lasting more than three months.
The extended closure applies to both public and private schools across Punjab. Students and teachers will now receive one of the longest summer breaks in recent years.
Punjab Schools to Remain Closed Until August
The provincial government finalized the schedule due to worsening weather conditions. Authorities believe the early closure will help protect children from extreme heat.
The official vacation schedule includes:
- Last working day for schools: May 21, 2026
- Summer vacations begin: May 22, 2026
- Schools reopen: August 24, 2026
The announcement has provided relief to many parents, teachers, and students. Many families were already concerned about the intense heat during school hours.
Rising Temperatures Prompt Early Decision
Punjab has experienced unusually high temperatures in recent weeks. Weather experts have also predicted more heat in the coming months.
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority warned that above-normal temperatures and rainfall could continue until July. Officials also advised institutions to take precautionary measures during the extreme weather period.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department warned about possible heatwaves, flash floods, and urban flooding in several regions.
The department also cautioned that strong winds, dust storms, and hailstorms may affect seasonal crops and orchards. Therefore, authorities decided to announce vacations earlier than usual.
Students and Teachers Welcome the Announcement
Many students welcomed the decision after weeks of hot weather conditions. Long school hours during extreme heat had become difficult for many children.
Teachers also expressed relief because classrooms often become uncomfortable during severe summer temperatures. In several areas, electricity shortages further increase difficulties for schools.
Parents believe the early vacations will help children avoid heat-related illnesses. Moreover, the longer break allows families to plan summer activities in advance.
Comparison With Last Year’s Summer Vacations
Last year, Punjab announced summer vacations from May 28 to August 14. However, authorities later extended the holidays until August 31 because of severe weather conditions.
This year, the government announced vacations even earlier. The decision reflects growing concerns about prolonged heat across the province.
The latest schedule shows that authorities are taking weather warnings more seriously. As climate conditions continue changing, early school closures may become more common in future years.
Parents and students are advised to follow official updates in case authorities make further changes to the academic calendar.
