LAHORE (HRNW) Caretaker Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Wednesday announced a one-week suspension of classes for students in grade one and below. This decision comes as the province grapples with cold wave.
Naqvi made this declaration during an urgent session held at Lahore’s Children’s Hospital, where he addressed the unfortunate demise of 36 children due to pneumonia. Consequently, exams for grades 1-10 have been postponed.
Highlighting the alarming statistic that eight out of 10 children are currently battling pneumonia, Naqvi directed schools to cease morning assemblies.
Stressing the importance of keeping children with pneumonia at home, he urged vaccination for both children and the elderly to curb the spread.
This move follows the reopening of schools post winter vacations, initiated on December 18, 2023. In efforts to adapt to the inclement weather, the provincial government previously adjusted school hours from January 10 to January 22, starting at 9:30am.
Acknowledging the persistence of the chilling conditions, the Punjab School Education Department had extended winter holidays for public and private institutions until January 9.