The Punjab government has firmly rejected reports claiming an extension of school holidays across the province. The clarification came after unverified notifications circulated widely on social media, causing confusion among parents, students, and teachers.
Punjab’s Education Minister, Rana Sikandar Hayat, said all educational institutions would reopen as planned. According to him, academic activities will resume normally from 12 January, following the previously announced schedule.
Government Rejects Viral Claims
Speaking through official social media channels, Rana Sikandar Hayat described the circulating notification as fake. He stressed that the Punjab School Education Department had issued no order to extend winter holidays.
The viral notification is not authentic, the minister said. There has been no change in the academic calendar.
As a result, all public and private schools and colleges across Punjab will operate according to the existing timetable. Teaching, examinations, and administrative work will continue without interruption.
Schools to Resume Classes from 12 January
The education minister made it clear that classes would resume across the province from 12 January. He added that all institutions are fully prepared to welcome students back.
This announcement aims to remove uncertainty that developed over recent days. Many parents had delayed preparations due to conflicting information online.
Punjab runs one of the largest education systems in South Asia. It serves millions of students through tens of thousands of schools and colleges. Even small disruptions can therefore affect a vast number of families.
Warning Against Misinformation on Social Media
Rana Sikandar Hayat strongly advised the public to avoid trusting unofficial sources. He urged citizens to verify information through the Education Department’s official channels.
Do not believe rumours or unverified posts, he said. Only trust announcements issued by the department.
In recent years, false notifications have increasingly appeared on social media platforms. These posts often spread rapidly, especially during weather-related closures or examination periods.
Education officials say misinformation can undermine planning and create unnecessary anxiety.
Ensuring Stability in the Education System
The minister emphasized that maintaining continuity in education is a top government priority. According to him, regular academic schedules are essential for student progress and institutional stability.
He said the government is committed to transparency and timely communication. Clear information helps schools plan effectively and allows parents to make informed decisions.
Furthermore, he added that no emergency or administrative issue currently justifies extended closures.
Relief for Parents and Students
The official clarification has brought relief to many families. Parents had expressed concern about potential learning gaps and examination delays.
Students, especially those preparing for board examinations, were worried about losing valuable classroom time. With the schedule confirmed, schools can now continue lessons without disruption.
Teachers and administrators have also welcomed the statement. Many said uncertainty had made it difficult to plan lessons and assessments.
Preparedness of Educational Institutions
Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed that schools and colleges are ready at both academic and administrative levels. He said institutions have completed all necessary preparations for reopening.
There are no grounds for closure concerns, he stated.
The government believes that prompt clarification will prevent further confusion. Officials hope this will also discourage the spread of similar rumours in the future.
Call for Responsible Information Sharing
Finally, the minister appealed to the public to share information responsibly. He urged social media users to verify claims before forwarding them.
False reports, he warned, can disrupt public services and damage trust.
With schools set to reopen as scheduled, education authorities are now focused on ensuring a smooth return to classrooms across Punjab.
