The Punjab government has extended the winter vacation for all schools statewide until January 13, 2026, due to persistent severe cold weather and dense fog. Confirmed by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, this order applies to all government, government-aided, and private schools, prioritizing student safety. While schools initiate online classes, implementation faces challenges including the digital divide, limited device access in rural and economically weaker households, parental work schedules restricting device use, difficulty in virtually teaching practical subjects, and connectivity issues in remote areas. District education officials are developing localised solutions, such as potential evening sessions. This extension affects thousands of students across all educational levels, highlighting disparities in digital education access, yet the state continues to monitor weather conditions for any further necessary updates.
Chandigarh: The Punjab government has extended the ongoing winter break for all schools across the state until January 13, 2026, with institutions set to reopen on January 14, 2026. This extension applies amid persistent severe cold weather and dense fog affecting the region.
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and confirmed by Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains, this decision will be enforced on all government, government-aided, and private schools in Punjab. This announcement prioritises student safety and health during the intense cold wave.
Challenges for Implementing this Decision
State-run schools are initiating online sessions, with principals coordinating alternatives for students lacking device access.
Challenges include the limited availability of smartphones or computers in rural and economically weaker households.
Parental work schedules, particularly for daily wage earners, restrict daytime device usage for children.
Subjects involving practical or technical components, such as mathematics, pose difficulties in virtual delivery.
Connectivity issues in remote areas further complicate participation.
The authority has not announced comprehensive plans to address the digital divide highlighted by this shift yet. District education officials are working on localised solutions, including potential evening sessions to accommodate scheduling conflicts.
Implications for Students and Educational Institutions
This extension affects thousands of students enrolled in primary, secondary, and senior secondary levels across Punjab’s educational institutions. While providing relief from harsh weather exposure, it underscores ongoing disparities in access to digital education resources.
Educators and stakeholders emphasise the need for balanced approaches to ensure equitable learning opportunities. The Punjab School Education Department, under the state government’s oversight, continues to monitor weather updates and may issue further notifications if conditions persist.
Parents and students are advised to stay informed through official school communications for details on online class schedules and resumption plans. Considering the weather conditions, some speculate that the decision might be extended for a few more days. Stay tuned for further updates.
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