Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has categorically dismissed circulating rumours about an extension in winter holidays, clarifying that all educational institutions across the province will reopen on January 12 , 2026 as scheduled.

In a clear statement, the minister said schools, colleges and other educational institutions in Punjab will resume academic activities on January 12 after the winter break. He noted that misleading claims are being spread on social media and through unverified sources suggesting that winter vacations have been extended, calling them completely false and baseless.

Also Read: UK cracks down on junk food ads in bold child health move

Rana Sikandar Hayat strongly denied the reports and urged parents, students and teachers not to believe rumours. He advised the public to rely only on information issued through official government channels. The minister made it clear that the Punjab Education Department has not issued any notification regarding an extension of holidays, nor is there any plan to do so.

He stressed that unnecessary disruption to the academic system harms students’ education, which is why the government is ensuring that classes resume strictly according to the academic calendar. The minister added that winter vacations were already granted after carefully considering weather conditions and students’ health, and no further holidays are required.

Also Read: Punjab to give 100,000 students free bikes, laptops

Appealing directly to parents, he asked them to prepare their children to return to schools and colleges from January 12 and avoid making decisions based on unverified news. He reaffirmed that safeguarding students’ educational future remains the top priority of the education department.

It is worth noting that over the past few days, rumours had been circulating on social media claiming that winter holidays in Punjab would be extended due to severe cold, causing concern among parents and students. The minister’s statement has now fully clarified that all institutions will reopen on January 12 without any change.