Over the past few days, many parents, students, and teachers across Punjab have been asking the same question: have winter vacations been extended for schools and colleges in January 2026? The short and clear answer is no.
Despite a notification circulating widely on social media claiming an extension of holidays due to cold weather, there is no official confirmation from the Punjab government or education authorities to support this claim.
What sparked the confusion
The confusion began after a document surfaced online suggesting that winter vacations had been extended until mid-January, with schools reopening later than planned. The document appeared formal, which led many people to assume it was genuine.
However, checks across official government channels show that no such notification has been issued. Neither the provincial government nor the School Education Department Punjab has published any update confirming an extension.
Official position from the education department
The matter was directly addressed by Rana Sikandar Hayat, who oversees the School Education Department. He publicly dismissed the reports and made it clear that schools and colleges will reopen according to the existing schedule.
He also urged parents and students not to rely on screenshots, forwarded messages, or unofficial notices circulating on social media, stressing that such misinformation creates unnecessary confusion.
How school holiday decisions are announced
In Punjab, any change to school or college schedules is communicated through:
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Official government notifications
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Statements from the education minister
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Updates shared on verified government platforms
If an extension were approved, it would be announced clearly and simultaneously across these channels.
What parents and students should do
For now, families should prepare for schools and colleges to reopen as previously announced. If weather conditions or other factors require a change, the government will issue an official notice.
Until then:
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Do not rely on WhatsApp forwards or social media posts
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Follow updates from verified government sources
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Contact your school administration only if they reference an official notification
Quick FAQ
Is there any chance winter vacations could still be extended?
Only if the Punjab government issues an official notification. As of now, no extension has been approved.
Are private schools included in this decision?
Yes. Without an official order, both public and private institutions must follow the existing schedule.
For January 2026, the position is clear: winter vacations in Punjab have not been extended, and reports suggesting otherwise are not official.
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.
