As dense fog continues to disrupt daily life across Punjab, confusion around winter holidays and school reopening dates has resurfaced. Parents and students are asking a simple question: will schools reopen on January 12, or could the break extend to January 19? The answer, for now, remains unsettled.
What the official schedule says
Under the existing notification issued by the Punjab Government, winter vacations for schools and colleges began on December 23, 2025, and are scheduled to end on January 11, 2026. According to this timeline, educational institutions are set to reopen on January 12.
Education authorities have repeatedly stated that this schedule remains valid and that no formal extension has been approved so far.
Why January 19 is being discussed
Despite the official position, worsening weather conditions—especially thick fog and reduced visibility—have sparked debate. Morning travel has become increasingly risky in several districts, prompting concerns about student safety.
Adding to the discussion, Punjab’s Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat recently invited public opinion on whether schools should reopen as planned or delay reopening by another week. While this does not change policy on its own, it signals that authorities are actively reviewing the situation.
Fog, safety, and ground realities
Over the past few days, fog has caused major disruptions on highways and city roads, particularly during early morning hours when most students commute. Education officials have advised schools to ensure safety measures, but parents remain concerned—especially for younger children who rely on public transport or long commutes.
The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) continues to monitor weather conditions and issue travel advisories, which may influence any final decision.
What parents and students should rely on
For now, January 12 remains the official reopening date. Any change—whether a shift to January 19 or a district-specific decision—will only be valid if announced through an official notification.
Parents are advised to:
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Ignore social media rumors and forwarded messages
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Follow updates from verified government sources
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Stay in contact with school administrations for official instructions
Why this decision matters
This situation highlights a familiar challenge: balancing academic continuity with student safety. While missed school days affect learning, unsafe travel conditions pose real risks that authorities cannot ignore.
Quick FAQ
Has winter vacation been officially extended?
No. As of now, there is no notification confirming an extension.
Can the date still change?
Yes, but only if the government issues a formal announcement.
Until then, Punjab’s schools remain scheduled to reopen on January 12, with January 19 still only under discussion—not decision.
This article is published for informational and educational purposes only. nise.org.pk is not an official government website and is not affiliated with any government department. Readers are advised to verify all information from official sources before taking any action.
