Winter Holidays Schedule Announced in Punjab for School and Colleges

The Punjab Education Department has officially announced the winter holiday schedule for schools and colleges across the province. The decision aims to provide relief to students and staff during the colder months and address health concerns caused by rising smog levels.

Winter Holidays Schedule

According to Secretary of Schools Punjab, Khalid Nazir Wattoo, schools will remain closed for winter holidays starting from December 20, 2024, to January 10, 2025. This 20-day break will give students and staff a chance to rest and recharge before returning to their academic routine.

Court Orders for Student Transportation

In an important development, the Lahore High Court (LHC) has issued strict instructions regarding student transportation after the winter holidays. These measures aim to reduce the effects of smog, which has become a growing concern in Punjab.

• Key Instructions from LHC:
  • Schools must provide pick-and-drop services for students.
  • Schools failing to comply may face penalties, including closure.
  • No school is allowed to issue disclaimers to avoid responsibility for student transportation.

These steps are part of broader efforts by the Punjab government to ensure student safety and minimize environmental harm caused by vehicle emissions.

Smog Prevention Efforts

The Punjab government has taken several actions to combat smog, including:

• Arresting individuals involved in stubble burning, which significantly contributes to air pollution.
• Encouraging schools to adopt environmentally friendly practices to ensure cleaner air for children and communities.

Read Also: Microsoft 365 Services Face Global Outages Outlook and Teams Affected Impact on Students

University Schedule Adjustments

In related news, Punjab University has postponed its mid-term exams by one week. Originally planned to begin on November 25, 2024, the exams will now start after the delay. However, regular classes will continue as scheduled through in-person, online, or hybrid formats.

Summary

The winter holidays and related measures underline the government’s commitment to student well-being. As schools prepare for the break, parents and educational institutions must work together to implement the new transportation rules and support ongoing efforts to fight smog in Punjab.