As Punjab braces for an intense heatwave, the provincial government has officially announced early summer vacations for all regional schools. According to the official statement released by Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, the summer break will commence from May 28, 2025, instead of the initially planned date of June 1.
The decision follows mounting concerns regarding student health amid soaring temperatures and is part of the Punjab government’s proactive measures to ensure the well-being of children and school staff during this critical period. Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat emphasized that the government is working hard to balance safety with learning, and future decisions will continue to reflect this approach.
Revised School Timings Announced
To accommodate the rising heat levels, the Punjab Education Ministry has also introduced revised school timings, which will be effective from May 21 until May 27. All schools will now function from:
7:30 AM to 11:30 AM
These revised hours aim to minimize student exposure to extreme heat and ensure continued academic activity in safer conditions.
Heatwave Advisory and Safety Measures
The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has been actively coordinating with educational institutions to prepare for the ongoing and forecasted heatwaves. PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia issued an official letter to school education and higher education departments, urging them to implement the following guidelines immediately:
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Suspend all outdoor sports and physical activities
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Ensure continuous supply of clean and cold drinking water
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Maintain proper ventilation and functional fans/cooling systems
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Encourage students to wear loose, light-colored clothing
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Alter school timings if necessary or declare early summer holidays
These guidelines are part of a broader framework to protect students and staff from heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, and fatigue.
PMD Predicts More Intense Heatwaves
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast another wave of extreme temperatures from May 20 to May 24, with day temperatures expected to soar 4–7°C above normal in several regions, including:
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Sindh
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Southern and Central Punjab
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Balochistan
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Islamabad
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Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
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Azad Kashmir
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Gilgit-Baltistan
The PMD also warned of persistent high-pressure systems in the upper atmosphere, intensifying the severity and duration of the heatwave.
Stay Safe and Hydrated
Follow the safety guidelines strictly, stay hydrated, avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure, and stay updated on any further government notifications.
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