Rana Sikandar Hayat has indicated that the Punjab government may revise the province’s academic calendar after private schools raised concerns about lengthy summer vacations affecting students’ education. Speaking about the issue, the minister acknowledged that extended breaks can negatively impact learning continuity and confirmed that officials are now examining different proposals to reduce academic losses across schools in Punjab.
The education minister said one proposal under consideration would allow schools to reopen on alternate Saturdays after the summer break ends. He explained that the government plans to prepare the new academic calendar in consultation with private educational institutions to ensure broader agreement. Furthermore, authorities are also discussing backup scheduling plans to manage unexpected closures or emergency holidays during the academic year.
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Rana Sikandar Hayat stated that the weekly Friday holiday has also contributed to educational setbacks by reducing the total number of teaching days available to students. According to the minister, schools should ideally remain operational for nearly 180 days annually, while many institutions currently function for only around 140 days. Officials believe this gap significantly affects classroom learning, syllabus completion and overall academic performance.
Meanwhile, the Punjab government is also considering permission for summer camps lasting between 30 and 45 days to help students remain academically engaged during long breaks. The minister noted that extended vacations often disrupt students’ study routines and reduce learning momentum. As a result, education authorities are exploring alternative schedules and additional academic activities to minimize the negative effects of prolonged school closures.
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The minister emphasized that any final decision regarding summer vacations must consider weather conditions and educational needs across the entire province, particularly in South Punjab where temperatures become extremely high. He explained that while many private schools operate with air-conditioned facilities, numerous government schools still face infrastructure challenges that make extreme heat a serious concern for students and staff.
Additionally, Rana Sikandar Hayat stressed that the government must carefully balance educational requirements with public safety and available school resources before finalizing any revised schedule. Officials are expected to continue consultations with stakeholders in the coming weeks to develop a practical policy. The proposed changes reflect growing concern within the education sector about maintaining consistent learning standards despite weather disruptions and reduced classroom time.