The public remains confused over whether schools and colleges in Punjab will reopen on Monday, January 12, or if the winter holidays will be extended further.
The uncertainty continues despite Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat clarifying on Friday that schools and colleges would reopen on January 12, 2026. He had said there was no decision to extend the winter holidays and urged people to avoid believing or sharing fake news.
However, confusion resurfaced after the minister later shared a poll on social media asking when schools in Punjab should reopen. The poll asked users to choose between January 12 and January 19, leading many parents and students to question whether an extension was being considered.
The poll has sparked fresh debate, with many interpreting it as a sign that the government may still be undecided. Parents say the mixed messaging has added to their concerns.
Fatima Ahmed, a mother of a fifth-grade student, said heavy fog in Lahore during morning hours, along with worsening air pollution, has made travel unsafe for children. She added that low visibility due to fog and smog is also affecting cities such as Gujranwala, Sialkot, Kasur and Lahore, prompting many parents to support an extension of winter holidays.
She said the government should either extend the holidays or issue a clear and final decision. “We are still confused about whether schools will open this Monday or the next,” she said.
The rise in cold weather, dense fog and smog during early morning hours has led many parents and students to demand an extension of winter vacations. The poll shared by the education minister has received strong engagement, with thousands of users taking part.
As of now, more than 85 percent of participants have voted in favour of extending the winter holidays. Over 170,000 votes support an extension, while around 14 percent, or roughly 27,800 voters, have opted for schools reopening on Monday, January 12, 2026.
Despite the strong response, the poll has further added to public uncertainty about the government’s final decision.
It is important to note that no official announcement has been made regarding an extension of winter holidays so far. Some reports suggest a decision may be taken by Sunday, but these remain unconfirmed and should be treated as speculation until an official notification is issued.
