Educational institutions across Punjab have reopened after a three month long summer vacation, marking the end of the students’ holidays and the resumption of academic activities.
According to a report, schools across Punjab remained closed for summer vacations from May 22 to August 23. Attendance remained relatively low on the first day after the three month break. However, students who returned to school appeared delighted to meet their teachers and friends again.
The students said they had started feeling tired and bored after staying at home continuously and were happy to return to school. They said studying lessons with the guidance of teachers was more beneficial and helped them understand the subjects better. The students also noted that they were given longer holidays this year compared to last year.
Meanwhile, teachers said student attendance is usually low on the first day after schools reopen every year. However, they expected attendance to increase significantly within one or two days and reach nearly 100 per cent.
School timings will be from 8:00am to 1:30pm, with classes held Monday to Friday.
The new timings will remain in effect until October.
It is pertinent to mention that some universities and colleges have already reopened, while others are scheduled to reopen later in September.
Prior to this development, the provincial government directed all public schools to implement the Pre-Smog Action Plan 2026 for July-September 2026.
Under the instructions, schools have been told to limit outdoor activities and check the Air Quality Index (AQI) before any planned outdoor activity.
When was summer break announced in Punjab schools?
Summer break was announced in Punjab in the last days of May for three months. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat announced that the summer break would begin on May 22 and would end on August 23.
Summer is one of the harshest periods in Punjab, so the academic calendar is designed around the weather.
May and June can bring temperatures above 40°C in many areas, making classrooms uncomfortable and, at times, unsafe. Hence, Pakistan tends to have longer summer holidays, particularly for school students.
The exact dates of the summer break can vary each year depending on weather conditions and government decisions.