Islamabad, 18 Apr 2025: Heatwave Alert and Early Summer Vacations are rapidly becoming pressing topics for schools in Punjab, as educational authorities prepare for the rising temperatures.
Amid forecasts of an intense heatwave sweeping across the province, the Punjab School Education Department has moved swiftly by seeking official permission to commence the summer holidays from June 1.
Heatwave Alert and Early Summer Vacations were central to the recent proposal submitted to the Chief Minister’s office. Reports indicate that a formal request has already been sent for review.
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Education Secretary Khalid Nazir Watto shared that the anticipated rise in temperature has prompted the department to recommend bringing forward the start of the summer vacation period. Nonetheless, the conclusive decision lies with the Chief Minister’s approval.
To address the immediate concern of escalating temperatures, the provincial authorities had already introduced changes to school hours earlier in April. Effective from April 7, school days were shortened by half an hour.
According to the revised schedule, classes now begin at 7:30 AM, with modified closing hours for institutions operating single and double shifts. These revised timings are expected to remain in place until October 15, aligning with seasonal adjustments.
Despite these temporary changes, a growing number of parents have voiced anxiety over students’ continued exposure to extreme heat.
Many guardians are urging the government to act swiftly by declaring summer holidays sooner than usual.
They believe prolonged exposure to high temperatures could pose health risks to children, especially those in government schools lacking adequate cooling infrastructure.
Educators are also advocating for a timely and clear decision regarding vacation dates. Teachers report that the lingering uncertainty is disrupting academic planning and making it difficult to manage lesson delivery and curriculum completion.
With final exams, assignments, and assessments still underway in some institutions, teachers emphasize the need for a definitive holiday schedule to avoid last-minute disruptions.
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While the proposal for early summer vacations is currently under review, the Punjab government has not yet made an official announcement.
Stakeholders across the board parents, educators, and school administrators are awaiting a clear verdict that balances academic continuity with student well-being amid the ongoing heatwave alert.
