Private school operators in Punjab are voicing strong opposition to the provincial government’s decision to prolong summer holidays until September 1, arguing the move will do more harm than good to students’ education.
The criticism follows an announcement by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, who said all public and private institutions will reopen together in September. The extension, he explained, was prompted by concerns over an ongoing heatwave and the potential health risks for children.
‘Only Punjab Still on Break’
The All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association says Punjab is now the only province keeping students out of classrooms for nearly three months. They point out that schools in Islamabad have been open since August 4, and other provinces have already resumed regular schedules.
Association representatives warn that such a long gap will disrupt learning momentum, especially for students preparing for board exams, and throw the academic calendar off track.
Alternative Proposals
Rather than a blanket closure, the group has proposed safer reopening strategies. These include enforcing strict health protocols, staggering school schedules, or allowing only board-level classes to resume initially.
The association is urging the government to rethink its approach, stressing that a cautious but earlier return is both possible and necessary to prevent long-term academic setbacks.
