Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed that all schools across the province will reopen on April 1, ending widespread speculation about extending holidays recently.
The announcement follows reports suggesting ongoing energy concerns could prompt authorities to extend the academic break for educational institutions across Punjab until mid-April this year.
Earlier, officials were considering a proposal to extend school holidays until April 15 while introducing a hybrid learning system, though no formal decision was announced.
By confirming schools will reopen from April 1, the minister resolved uncertainty surrounding the academic calendar, providing clarity to students, teachers, and parents about schedules.
The decision follows days of discussions over whether the holiday period would be extended, particularly due to recommendations aimed at reducing electricity consumption in schools.
Officials and administrators are now preparing for reopening, with the provincial government stressing that all institutions must follow the schedule and ensure full operational readiness.
On March 9, the Punjab government announced closure of all schools, colleges, and universities, citing economic pressures linked to regional conflicts and worsening fuel shortages.
Authorities said institutions would remain closed from March 10 to March 31, while Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz confirmed scheduled examinations would continue during this period.
She added colleges and universities were instructed to shift to online classes, while schools would remain completely closed until the end of March under policy.
