The decision prioritizes the safety and well-being of the university community, which includes thousands of students, faculty members, and administrative staff, many of whom travel from flood-affected areas.

According to a formal notification issued by the university registrar, all classes, examinations, and other regular academic engagements scheduled from Monday, September 1, to Sunday, September 7, 2025, will remain suspended. The administration emphasized that this proactive measure is essential to prevent any untoward incidents and to allow students and staff facing logistical challenges due to the weather to manage their situations without academic pressure.

“In light of the prevailing severe weather conditions and to ensure the safety of our students and faculty, the competent authority has approved the observance of a ‘Zero Week.’ All academic activities will be suspended during this period,” the notification read.

Focus on Administrative and Orientation Activities

While formal classes will not be held, the university will not be completely shut down. The “Zero Week” will be utilized productively to handle essential administrative tasks. Departments will focus on finalizing admission formalities for new students, conducting orientation sessions to welcome them, and completing hostel allotment procedures. This period will also be used by faculty and staff for “meet-and-greet” activities, designed to ease the transition for new and returning students and foster a welcoming campus environment before the official start of the academic term.

Resumption of Classes and Academic Calendar

The university has confirmed that regular academic activities, including classes and examinations, are scheduled to officially commence on Monday, September 8, 2025.

Crucially, the registrar’s office has assured that the previously issued overall academic calendar for the semester will remain unaffected by this one-week pause. To compensate for the lost academic time, the university is prepared to implement contingency plans. The notification stated that if necessary, extra classes may be conducted online or scheduled on Saturdays to ensure that the course curriculum is completed as planned without compromising educational standards.

This decision by Punjab University reflects a responsible approach to the ongoing climate crisis affecting Pakistan, joining other educational institutions in prioritizing safety while ensuring academic continuity through flexible planning.