More than 80 percent of participants voted in favour of extending Punjab’s winter holidays by one week, according to the results of an online poll conducted by Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat. The poll was launched after concerns were raised by parents and teachers due to intensifying cold weather across the province.
According to the poll results shared on social media, 86 percent of respondents supported reopening schools and colleges on January 19, 2026, while only 14 percent favoured reopening on January 12, 2026. The poll, hosted on Facebook, specifically sought public opinion on the most suitable reopening date for educational institutions.
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Despite the majority vote, the education minister later posted on X (formerly Twitter) stating, “Schools & Colleges will Open on The 12th of January Inshallah,” and urged citizens to avoid fake news. The contrasting messages have fueled speculation that the government may still review the situation before issuing a final notification.
Education officials say the final decision will consider weather conditions, public feedback, and academic schedules. Parents and students have been advised to rely only on official government announcements for confirmation regarding winter holiday extensions.
