Punjab’s School Education Department has not extended winter vacations for schools and colleges, despite a viral notification on social media claiming holidays would continue until January 17, 2026. The provincial government has clearly rejected the claim and advised the public to ignore unverified information.
Over the past few days, a document circulating online suggested that winter holidays in all public and private educational institutions across Punjab had been extended due to severe weather. The alleged notification stated that schools would reopen on January 19, triggering confusion among parents, students, and school administrations.
However, no such notification has appeared on the official websites or social media platforms of the Punjab government or the School Education Department. In Punjab, any change in academic schedules is formally communicated through official channels, making the viral document unreliable.
Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has categorically denied reports of any extension. Addressing the speculation earlier this week, he reaffirmed that educational institutions will reopen as per the existing schedule.
“School & College Holidays Will NOT Be Extended. Please avoid fake news,”
Rana Sikandar Hayat
The minister urged parents and students to rely only on official government announcements and not on social media claims.
As of now, there is no change in the winter vacation schedule. Schools and colleges across Punjab are expected to reopen on the previously announced date. Authorities have again emphasized that misinformation can cause unnecessary disruption and panic.
