Misleading rumors circulating on social media about extension of schools and colleges holidays have triggered chaos in Punjab. Parents, students and teachers were left confused after unverified posts circulated speculating that holidays might be extended due to cold weather and fog.
Cutting through confusion, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has taken to his verified social media accounts to clarifuy matters. He said that the education department has no intention to increase existing winter holidays and all educational institutes would open as per routine.
Education Minister Clarifies Winter Vacation Extension Rumors
THERE will be no extra holidays and if any such news is spread, it would be false and disinformation,” said Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat. Punjab has decided to open schools and colleges in Punjab from January 12, 2026.
He appealed teachers, students and parents not to trust on informal sources and added that only statements of the Punjab School Education Department or provincial government should be considered.
Official Winter Vacation Schedule for Punjab Schools & Colleges
The Punjab government had already announced winter holidays in all public and private educational institutions from Dec 22, 2025 to Jan 12, 2026. This schedule is standard throughout the province and has not changed.
The School Education Department as well as the Higher Education Department has expressed stern that all schools including colleges shall observe officially notified dates in letter and spirit.
Punjab Winter Vacations Notification Status
No official announcement has been made yet about an extension of winter vacations. They have also made it clear that the previous schedule will remain operational until an official notice is published.
Parents and education stakeholders also have submitted reservation, urging private schools and colleges to stick to the government’s decision and not resort to any alterations in their level.
Will Winter Vacations Be Extended in Punjab?
There is currently no extension confirmed after 12 January 2026. The Punjab government, however, can reconsider the situation due to past practices in case of an extreme weather till then.
Depending on the condition, future possible management options include the following:
- Weather forecasts
- Fog and cold severity
- Student attendance
- Safety considerations
If the extension becomes indispensable, it will be notify officially by the Punjab School Education Department after an assessment.
Final Update for Students & ParentsPunjab Winter Vacations 2026
For the present, schools and other educational institutions will be opened in Punjab on 12 January 2026. Students and teachers are urged to plan accordingly, and turn only to official government postings for updated information.
