In a significant policy shift, the Punjab government has announced that schools for senior grades will reopen earlier than planned, with classes for 9th and 10th, O Level, A Level, and Intermediate students resuming from Monday, August 18.
The move reverses last week’s decision to extend summer vacations for all grades until September due to the ongoing heatwave. Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said the change was made after consultations with education experts, who recommended that senior students return to school sooner to prevent academic disruption.
Higher Grades Back to School
According to the updated schedule, all public and private schools in Punjab will reopen on August 18 for:
- 9th and 10th grade students
- O Level and A Level classes
- Intermediate (FA/FSc) students
The government has directed educational institutions to make necessary arrangements to safeguard students from high temperatures. This includes ensuring the availability of clean drinking water, proper ventilation, and, where needed, adjusting school timings to minimize heat exposure.
Younger Students to Return in September
While senior classes resume in mid-August, students from 1st to 8th grade will continue their summer break and return to classrooms on September 1, as initially announced when the heatwave-related extension was declared.
Policy Reversal Follows Earlier Heatwave Decision
Last week, the provincial government extended the summer holidays for all grades until September 1, citing concerns over rising temperatures and their potential health risks for children. The School Education Department had initially instructed both public and private schools to remain closed throughout August to ensure student safety.
However, following further discussions and expert input, the government decided to bring senior students back earlier to maintain the academic calendar and avoid learning gaps, especially for those preparing for board and Cambridge examinations.
The revised directive applies to all educational institutions in the province, with strict compliance required from both the public and private sectors.
