The Lahore High Court (LHC) Rawalpindi Bench on Monday admitted a petition challenging the Punjab government’s decision to extend school summer vacations.
The case was filed by a student, Danial, who argued that the prolonged closure of schools was damaging the academic future of children. Justice Jawadul Hassan heard the petition and issued notices to the Punjab education secretary and other relevant officials, directing them to submit their replies.
Representing Danial, lawyer Hafiz Waqar Ahmad Awan said the Punjab Education Department had no valid justification for extending vacations. “Keeping schools closed for nearly three months is nothing less than playing with children’s future,” he told the court.
During the hearing, Justice Hassan questioned the government’s reasoning, pointing out that “courts have remained open even during wars. What is this practice of shutting schools first for summer and then for fog?”
He stressed that education is a fundamental right under the Constitution, and students cannot be deprived of it. The judge also remarked that parents pay hefty fees to ensure consistent learning for their children.
The case will move forward once the provincial government files its response to the court notices.
