LHC moved against Punjab schools three-month summer vacation plan

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court on Tuesday issued notices to the Punjab government and other respondents on a petition challenging the decision to allow three months of summer holidays in educational institutions across the province.

Justice Khalid Ishaq heard the petition filed by the All Pakistan Private Schools Association and sought replies from the respondents, including the Government of Punjab and the School Education Department. After issuing notices, the court adjourned the matter for an indefinite period.

Petition challenges closure notification

According to the petition, the Punjab government had issued a notification directing schools to remain closed for three months during the summer season. The petitioner argued that the extended break would adversely affect students’ education and academic activity.

Counsel for the petitioner told the court that the academic year in Pakistan had already been reduced to nearly 120 days, which the petition described as significantly lower than the duration followed in many developed countries. The plea stated that in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom, academic calendars extend to as much as 230 days a year, allowing students to receive more continuous and effective education.

The petition argued that a prolonged shutdown of educational institutions would further undermine learning standards and educational progress in Punjab. It also maintained that no society could move towards progress and development without a stronger education system.

Relief sought from the court

In its prayer, the petitioner asked the court to declare the notification on the three-month summer vacation unlawful and set it aside. The plea also requested that the relevant authorities be directed to restrict summer holidays to six to eight weeks instead of the longer closure period announced by the provincial government.

The case was taken up by the Lahore High Court after the All Pakistan Private Schools Association challenged the provincial government’s decision, placing before the court its concerns over the impact of the extended vacation on students’ studies and the broader academic calendar.

With notices now issued to the Punjab government and other respondents, the matter will proceed after replies are submitted before the court at a later stage.