Punjab Schools to Stay Open Despite Energy-Saving Speculation

News Desk 

Lahore: Punjab Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat on Friday clarified that the provincial government has no plans to close schools or shift classes online.

The statement comes amid speculation that authorities may introduce energy-saving measures following rising oil prices after the US-Israel attack on Iran.

Speaking to the media, Hayat said schools across Punjab will continue operating on schedule, with no suspension of in-person classes. He added that institutions are currently conducting assessments for students from Grade VIII to XII.

Earlier reports suggested that the federal government was considering online classes as part of a proposed “national action plan” aimed at adjusting work and education routines to conserve energy.

Sources said the plan could include digital learning, reduced office attendance, and remote work for corporate and IT sectors, similar to measures adopted during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The development comes after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif formed an 18-member high-level committee to assess the economic impact of rising international oil prices and devise strategies to safeguard Pakistan’s economy amid global price volatility.