Major private school associations in Punjab have rejected the government’s decision to announce summer vacations from May 22 to August 23 for schools and colleges.
Representatives of private educational institutions called the nearly three-month break harmful for students and the overall education system.
School associations also announced plans to challenge the decision in the Lahore High Court, including benches in Rawalpindi, Multan, and Bahawalpur.
Officials from private school organizations warned that lengthy school closures could negatively impact academic activities and increase student dropout risks.
Dr. Abrar Hussain Malik criticized the early closure decision and said long vacations reduce students’ interest in studies.
He also warned that extended holidays increase screen time and non-academic activities among children.
According to Dr. Abrar Hussain Malik, millions of children are already out of school in Pakistan and longer vacations could further damage educational continuity.
Irfan Muzaffar Kayani also opposed the decision and suggested vacations should instead run from June 1 to August 14.
Private school representatives further requested permission to organize summer camps for classes nine and ten during the holiday period.
Some school owners proposed reducing vacation duration and adjusting school timings during extreme heat rather than closing institutions for almost three months.
The Punjab government had earlier announced summer vacations because of rising temperatures and heatwave concerns across the province.
The latest education debate has become a trending topic online as users search for Punjab summer vacations 2026, private schools Punjab, school holiday updates, and heatwave school closure news.