The Punjab government has extended winter vacations for schools and colleges across the province after reviewing weather conditions and safety concerns.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat announced the decision in a statement, saying the government acted on the advice of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority, which warned of a prolonged cold spell and extremely low temperatures expected next week.
He said the extension aims to protect students from severe weather conditions as temperatures are forecast to remain unusually low in many areas of Punjab. The minister confirmed that educational institutions will now reopen on January 19.
In recent days, reports and speculation about possible changes to the winter vacation schedule had circulated on social media. The education department reiterated that official announcements regarding school calendars are made only through authorized government channels.
Authorities have advised parents, students, and teachers to rely on official statements for accurate information and avoid sharing unverified claims related to school schedules.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority has already cautioned residents about harsh weather conditions, particularly during night and early morning hours, prompting precautionary measures across the province.
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