Punjab Puts 2026 School Summer Break Decision on Hold as Heatwave Risk Grows

Overview

• Punjab’s education minister said a final call on 2026 summer vacations will come after May 15 and will require Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s approval.
• The government is studying a plan to cut 15 to 20 days from the summer break and 5 to 6 days from winter to raise teaching days from about 180 to roughly 190.
• Officials say the goal is to reduce learning loss and ensure the syllabus finishes on time by keeping students in class for more of the year.
• A severe heatwave alert from the Meteorological Department has raised the chance of early closures if late May temperatures reach unsafe levels, experts said.
• Parents and schools may need backup schedules for exams, transport, and childcare if an early break is called at short notice.