Islamabad, Nov 22: As winter approaches, students and parents in Punjab are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the 2024 winter vacation schedule. Typically, the Punjab School Education Department grants a two-week break in December to shield students from severe weather conditions.
This year, the winter vacation in Punjab is likely to start on December 21, 2024 (Saturday) and end on January 1, 2025 (Wednesday). These dates follow the usual holiday pattern observed in previous years, although there may be adjustments based on weather conditions and the ongoing smog issue.
Past Patterns and Smog Concerns
In 2023, the winter vacation was originally scheduled from December 18 to December 31 but was extended to January 9, 2024, due to the worsening smog. This year, the government may take a similar approach, focusing on students’ health and safety.
Smog has recently led to temporary school closures in major cities such as Lahore and Multan, although conditions have improved in areas like Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala, where schools have reopened.
New SOPs for Schools Amid Environmental Challenges
To address the environmental and health issues caused by smog, the Punjab Education Department has introduced updated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for public and private schools. These guidelines are designed to improve air quality monitoring and ensure the safety of students during the winter season.
Winter Breaks in Other Provinces
While Punjab is at the forefront with its expected winter vacation schedule, other provinces in Pakistan are likely to announce their break dates soon. Parents are encouraged to stay updated and watch for official announcements regarding the confirmed schedules.
The official announcement for Punjab’s 2024 winter vacation is expected in the coming weeks. Students, parents, and educators should stay prepared for any changes based on weather conditions or smog concerns.