Today marks the final day of educational activities in both public and private schools across Punjab, ushering in a wave of excitement and relief among students.

In response to the recent heat wave, the provincial government has issued a notification declaring the commencement of summer vacations from May 25. The holidays end on August 14, and schools will reopen on August 15.

In Lahore, students were seen celebrating the last day with palpable enthusiasm. "I've been counting down the days," exclaimed Ali, a fifth-grader from a local private school. "This heat has been unbearable, and I can't wait to spend my days playing cricket with my friends and visiting my grandparents in the countryside."

Similar sentiments echoed throughout the province. At a government school in Faisalabad, Sara, a seventh-grade student, shared her plans for the break. "I'm thrilled to have a break from school. My family is planning a trip to the northern areas to escape the heat. It's going to be an adventure!" 

Also Read: Summer holidays in Punjab schools to now begin on May 25

According to a notification issued on May 20, all government and private schools in Punjab, including Lahore, will be closed from May 25 now. Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat said a large number of private schools contacted the government regarding early summer holidays. 

He said the private schools holding examinations have been allowed to open this week, adding that the severity of heat was intense next week. The education department consulted the PDMA, after which it was decided to begin the summer holidays at schools from May 25. 

Earlier, the minister announced early summer holidays for all public and private educational institutions starting from May 22. Announcing the decision, Rana Sikandar Hayat emphasized in a video message the importance of student health and safety during the current heat wave. He said parents were asked for feedback about the holidays, and 96% of them demanded summer vacation start this week. 

Also Read: High alert issued as heat wave intensifies: temperatures may reach 50°C

The country is on high alert as meteorologists predict an intensification of the ongoing heatwave. Citizens are urged to prepare for another severe spell of high temperatures, while the ongoing one is expected to last several more days.

According to Mahr Sahibzad Khan, director of the Met department in Lahore, temperatures are likely to escalate further in Sindh, Punjab, and Islamabad. In specific regions, such as Mohenjodaro, Jacobabad, Thatta, Benazirabad, and Nawabshah, the mercury could soar to an unprecedented 50 degrees Celsius.

Similarly, areas in Punjab currently experiencing 46-degree temperatures may see an increase to 48-49 degrees. Islamabad, which is presently at 41 degrees, may climb to 43-44 degrees.