The Rawalpindi Bench of the Lahore High Court (LHC) has taken up a petition filed against the Punjab government’s recent decision to extend summer vacations in schools across the province.
The case was admitted for hearing on Monday after a student, Danial, through his legal counsel, approached the court, claiming that the prolonged closure of schools was unjustified and harmful to students’ academic progress.
Petition Details
Danial’s lawyer, Hafiz Waqar Ahmad Awan, argued that the Punjab Education Department had already kept schools closed for nearly three months, and further extension of vacations amounted to “playing with the future of children.” He maintained that such long breaks negatively impact the quality of education, disrupt the academic calendar, and place undue stress on students preparing for board examinations.
Courtroom Proceedings
Justice Jawadul Hassan, who presided over the hearing, raised critical questions about the government’s decision. The judge expressed dissatisfaction with the rationale for extending vacations, remarking:
“Courts have remained open even during wars. What is this practice of shutting schools first for summer and then for fog?”
Justice Hassan further emphasized that education is a fundamental constitutional right and that children must not be deprived of continuous learning opportunities. He also highlighted that parents, who pay considerable school fees, reasonably expect their children to have uninterrupted academic sessions.
Notices Issued to Government Officials
The court has issued formal notices to the Punjab Education Secretary and other relevant respondents, seeking a detailed explanation of the grounds on which the vacation extension was announced. The government will now be required to defend its decision before the court in upcoming proceedings.
Background and Public Concerns
The Punjab government had earlier announced an extension of summer holidays citing weather conditions, but the move triggered widespread debate. Many parents and educationists criticized the decision, arguing that extended breaks lead to academic loss, reduced learning momentum, and delays in syllabus completion.
Education experts have also warned that such disruptions could particularly disadvantage students in Matric and Intermediate classes, who have limited time before their annual examinations.
What Happens Next?
The case will continue after the government submits its reply. If the court rules in favor of the petitioner, the Punjab government may be compelled to reopen schools earlier than planned or introduce alternative measures to minimize the impact on students’ education.
This legal battle highlights the growing frustration among parents, students, and education activists over repeated school closures, whether due to summer heat, smog, or administrative decisions.
