Punjab rules out school closures and online classes for now

Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat has said the provincial government is not planning to close schools or move classes online. He made the statement amid speculation that authorities could adopt energy-saving restrictions because of higher oil prices and regional uncertainty.

According to the minister, schools in Punjab will continue operating on schedule and there is no proposal under consideration to suspend in-person learning. He also noted that many institutions are currently conducting examinations for students from Grade VIII to XII, making continuity a priority.

The clarification follows reports that the federal government was studying a broader energy conservation plan that could include remote work and digital learning in some sectors. Punjab, however, has publicly distanced itself from any immediate move to shut campuses or shift to online education.