Punjab Declares Winter Vacations for Colleges, Revises School Schedule

In response to the rising threat of smog, the Punjab government has announced a 20-day winter holiday for schools and a 12-day winter vacation for colleges. The decision aims to mitigate the adverse health effects of smog in the province.

The Higher Education Department of Punjab has confirmed that all public and private colleges in the province will remain closed from December 24, 2024 to January 5, 2025, with classes resuming on January 6. The revised winter vacation dates follow the initial announcement by the Punjab government for schools, which were first reported to be closed from December 22 to January 5, resulting in individuals raising concerns that the duration of the holidays would be considerable. The Education Department of Punjab however revised and changed the dates for schools resulting in a 22-21 day duration.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Government has also announced winter vacations for schools in plain areas from December 22 to December 31, while schools in hilly regions will remain closed until February 28, the move displaying the variance in the climate conditions across the province. Similarly, schools in Balochistan will continue to observe winter breaks due to the recent cold waves affecting the region.

Sindh Education Department has revealed a week shorter winter holiday for the province, which are schedule to take place from December 21 to December 31, 2024. However, in comparison, this year’s short winter break differs from past breaks where the students get long breaks. As per the issued notification, educational institutions will reopen on January 1, 2025.

As winter vacations start in schools and colleges across Pakistan, students and parents are likely to welcome the much-needed break, while the provincial governments aim to address the environmental concerns and safety measures for both students and teachers amidst the winter season.