LAHORE: The Punjab government on Wednesday allowed summer camps in all public and private schools under strict guidelines.

School Education Department (SED) approved the establishment of summer camps in both public and private schools across the province, allowing students to participate in curricular activities during the summer break.

According to an official notification available with Dawn, the camps will operate from June 16 to July 15, 2025, with strict guidelines to ensure student safety and accessibility.

The camps will be open to all classes but must be held strictly between 7am and 10am to avoid the intense summer heat. Private schools have been explicitly barred from charging any additional fees for the camps, while government schools and teachers are prohibited from collecting tuition fees.

The notification further directed that the participation should remain entirely voluntary, with schools required to obtain parental consent before enrolling students.

To safeguard students from high temperatures, all activities must be conducted indoors, with schools mandated to provide essential facilities such as clean drinking water, proper seating, fans, and backup electricity during power outages.

Additionally, schools must keep a well-stocked first aid kit on-site. Students attending the camps will be exempt from wearing uniforms but are encouraged to wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and hats for sun protection.

SED Secretary Khalid Nazir Wattoo also directed all chief executive officers of the District Education Authorities (DEAs) and heads of private institutions to ensure strict compliance.

The deputy commissioners, school administrators, and other relevant officials had been tasked with monitoring and implementation of the orders.

The government had taken the initiative to provide an engaging yet safe environment for students during the summer break while maintaining affordability and adherence to health protocols.

Published in Dawn, June 12th, 2025