Islamabad, 7 May, 2025: A widely circulated notification claiming the closure of all public and private schools in Punjab from May 8 to May 10, 2025, has been declared false by provincial education authorities.
The document, which appeared to be an official notice from the Punjab School Education Department, falsely stated that schools across the province would shut down for three days.
The fake circular bore the name and signature of a senior education official, and included details such as affected dates, departments, and instructions to district education authorities.
However, a clear red “Fake News” stamp later appeared on versions of the image as officials moved to counter the misinformation.
No Official Order Issued
According to sources within the School Education Department, no such order was ever approved or issued.
Authorities confirmed that there is no official directive for school closures between May 8 and 10, and any such claims should be disregarded. Regular classes in both public and private institutions are to continue as per routine.
Officials have further clarified that while some exams, including O-Level and A-Level assessments, may proceed under the authority of international boards.
This has no bearing on the regular academic schedule for schools governed by Punjab’s education system.
Public Urged to Verify Before Sharing
The department has urged citizens, especially parents and students, to verify any school-related news from the official School Education Department website or credible government sources.
They also reminded the public that spreading unverified or forged government documents is a criminal offence under Pakistan’s cybercrime laws.
As misinformation continues to circulate on social media platforms, education authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and timely communication, especially in matters affecting students’ academic calendar.
