The Punjab government has announced that all public and private schools across the province will begin summer vacations from May 28, 2025, due to an ongoing and intensifying heatwave.
Originally scheduled to start on June 1, the summer break has been advanced by four days to protect students from the severe weather. Additionally, effective from May 21, school hours have been revised to 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM to limit student exposure to peak heat periods.
Punjab Education Minister stated that the health and safety of children is the government’s top priority. The decision was made after consultation with the meteorological department and school administrations.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast extreme temperatures across Punjab, with some areas expecting highs of 45°C or more. Parents and teachers had raised concerns over student well-being, prompting swift government action.
This is not the first time school schedules have been altered due to weather conditions. Similar adjustments were made in previous years during heatwaves and smog events, reflecting growing concerns over climate change and student safety.
Parents have largely welcomed the decision, while schools are adjusting end-of-term exam schedules and administrative planning. Health experts have also endorsed the move, advising families to keep children hydrated and indoors during the daytime.
