Punjab Schools Reopening from August 18 in Phases After Heatwave Break

LAHORE – The Punjab government has announced a phased reopening of educational institutions from August 18, 2025, after consultations with stakeholders, Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat confirmed on Wednesday.

Under the new plan, grades 9 and 10, as well as Intermediate, O-Level, and A-Level classes, will resume in both public and private institutions from August 18, while grades 1 to 8 will return on September 1.

Why Punjab Schools Are Reopening in Phases

The decision follows weeks of extreme heat and high humidity across Punjab, despite occasional rain. According to the Education Minister, weather safety was the primary concern.

“We reviewed temperature patterns and humidity levels before finalising the reopening plan. Student and teacher safety remains our top priority,” Hayat said.

The province had earlier extended summer vacations until August 31 due to the ongoing heatwave. However, private school bodies pushed for an earlier reopening, warning that a long closure could disrupt exam schedules and reduce preparation time.

Private Schools Association’s Opposition

The All Pakistan Private Schools Management Association had strongly criticised the earlier decision to keep schools shut until August 31.

Its representatives argued that August heat, while uncomfortable, could be managed with safety measures, and that delaying classes further would harm academic performance.

Following these discussions, the Punjab government opted for a compromise — reopening higher grades earlier while giving younger students two extra weeks at home.

Official Reopening Schedule

Public and Private Institutions – Punjab

The schedule applies to all schools and colleges across the province.

Weather Conditions Remain Challenging

Meteorological reports show temperatures in several Punjab districts still hovering above 38°C, with humidity exceeding 65%. Experts note that such conditions can be physically taxing for children, particularly in institutions without effective cooling or ventilation.

Officials say the phased reopening will allow monitoring of weather trends while ensuring that students preparing for board and international exams can resume studies without further delay.

Background

Punjab’s summer vacation extension was initially announced in early August as part of heatwave safety measures. The move mirrored similar actions taken in Sindh earlier this year, though Punjab’s private schools mounted a stronger challenge.

Education authorities have not ruled out adjusting schedules again if heat conditions worsen.

Final Word

The Punjab schools reopening in August 2025 marks a balancing act between health concerns and academic needs. Senior students will return first to prepare for exams, while younger children get extra time away from the heat.