Educational institutions remain shut

lahore — Pakistan’s Punjab government decided to close all educational institutions for two days (Monday and Tuesday) due to worsening law and order situation in the province. The decision was taken before the hardliners called off protest on Monday following resignation of federal law minister Zahid Hamid.

“Due to current law and order situation in the country, the government has decided to close all educational institutions — public and private sector schools, colleges and universities — for Monday and Tuesday” said an official statement.

Higher Education Minister Syed Raza Ali Gilani said the decision was taken to ensure the “safety of our children”.

“The situation is quite alarming... we cannot take chances to open educational institutions in such circumstances,” Gilani told.

“I cannot confirm whether the educational institutions will reopen after the two-day holiday. It all depends on the situation. If it improves they will open on Wednesday,” he said.

Lahore remained cut off on Sunday from the rest of the country as the protesters of continue to hold demonstrations across the city, leaving no chance for commuters to travel within the city.

Meanwhile, various universities in Karachi have also announced to postpone examinations scheduled for Monday, whereas all private educational institutes in Sindh are announced to remain close.

However, the Sindh government has decided not to close the schools in the province whereas the Private Schools Association has announced to close the private schools on Monday.

I cannot confirm whether the educational institutions will reopen after the two-day holiday. It all depends on the situation. If it improves they will open on Wednesday Syed Raza Ali Gilani, Higher Education Minister