Punjab Education Department Announces New Updates for Schools

The Punjab School Education Department (SED) has announced a series of new directives for public and private schools across the province, focusing on student safety, discipline, and academic engagement during the summer break. The latest notification allows schools to conduct optional summer camps while also introducing strict regulations regarding mobile phone use, heatwave precautions, and campus discipline.

According to the department, schools are permitted to organize summer camps from June 1 to June 30. These camps will operate from Monday to Thursday between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM, while Fridays will remain off. The decision aims to provide students with an opportunity to continue educational and learning activities during the vacation period without disrupting their summer break.

Summer Camps to Remain Optional

The School Education Department has clarified that participation in summer camps is completely voluntary. Students will only be allowed to attend with the consent of their parents or guardians.

Key summer camp guidelines include:

• Camps can be held from June 1 to June 30.
• Timings are restricted to 7:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
• Activities will take place from Monday to Thursday only.
• Student attendance is not mandatory.
• Parental consent is required for participation.

Officials believe the camps will help students stay engaged in educational activities while providing additional learning opportunities during the holiday period.

No Extra Fees and Relaxed Uniform Policy

The department has also issued strict instructions regarding fees and student dress codes during the camp period. Both public and private schools have been prohibited from charging any additional fees for summer camps.

Private schools have specifically been warned against collecting extra payments from parents under any camp-related category. Authorities have stated that strict action may be taken against institutions found violating these instructions.

In addition, students attending summer camps will not be required to wear school uniforms. Instead, they may wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing to cope with the intense summer temperatures.

Strict Heatwave Safety Measures

With temperatures remaining high across Punjab, the School Education Department has directed schools to prioritize student safety. All summer camp activities must be conducted indoors to protect children from extreme heat.

Schools have been instructed to ensure the availability of:

• Clean drinking water
• Functional fans in classrooms
• Proper ventilation
• Safe indoor learning spaces

Outdoor activities, assemblies, and sports sessions during camp hours have been discouraged due to the ongoing heatwave.

The department has warned that schools failing to provide basic facilities may face immediate closure as well as financial penalties. Monitoring teams may also inspect institutions to ensure compliance with the safety guidelines.

Mobile Phone Ban and Smoke-Free Campuses

Among the most significant policy changes is a complete ban on mobile phones for both teachers and students during school hours. Education officials say the move is intended to improve discipline, reduce distractions, and create a better learning environment.

Meanwhile, the Higher Education Department (HED) has implemented a strict smoke-free campus policy across educational institutions. Under the new rules, smoking and drug use by teachers, staff members, or any other individuals on school and college premises are strictly prohibited.

The latest measures reflect the Punjab government's efforts to improve educational standards while ensuring student welfare. Schools across the province have been directed to follow the new guidelines carefully, while parents are encouraged to remain informed about summer camp arrangements and other updates issued by the education department.