The Government of Punjab has allowed public and private schools across the province to organise summer camps during summer vacations under a new notification issued by the School Education Department. The decision aims to continue curricular learning activities while ensuring student safety during the extreme weather conditions of June.
According to the notification issued on May 29, 2026, schools can conduct summer camps from June 1 to June 30. However, the department has imposed several conditions for schools to follow strictly. Authorities stated that legal action would be taken against institutions that violate the official instructions.
The notification stated that summer camps would only operate from Monday to Thursday, while Friday would remain off. Schools can arrange camps for all classes, but activities can only take place between 7:00am and 10:00am. The department directed schools to avoid outdoor activities and conduct all classes and sessions inside classrooms or other indoor areas.
Officials also clarified that participation in the camps would remain optional for students. Schools cannot force students to attend the activities. Parents must give consent before their children join any summer camp programme. The department said this step was necessary to protect students and to ensure parents remain fully informed about the arrangements.
The School Education Department placed special focus on financial relief for families. Private schools cannot charge any extra or additional fee for summer camps. Government schools and teachers have also been barred from collecting tuition fees from students during the camp period. The decision came after repeated public concerns about rising education expenses and additional charges imposed during vacations.
The notification further directed school administrations to ensure proper facilities for students attending the camps. Schools must provide clean and cold drinking water, maintain cleanliness, arrange proper seating, and ensure fans and electricity backup during load shedding. Administrations must also keep first aid boxes with necessary medical supplies available at all times.
Authorities allowed students to attend the camps without uniforms. The department instructed schools to permit weather-friendly clothing to help students remain comfortable during the hot summer season. Education officials believe this measure will reduce discomfort and protect children from heat-related issues.
The School Education Department instructed Chief Executive Officers of District Education Authorities, principals, and heads of institutions to ensure full implementation of the policy. Officials stressed that schools must follow the instructions in “true letter and spirit.”
The move has triggered mixed reactions among parents and education circles. Some parents welcomed the opportunity for students to remain academically engaged during vacations. Others raised concerns about the intense summer heat and questioned whether children should attend schools during June despite the limited morning timings.
Education experts believe the success of the programme will depend on how effectively schools implement safety measures and whether they strictly follow the official guidelines issued by the Punjab government.
