Peshawar, December 30, 2024 – The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) government has announced an extension of winter vacations for all public and private schools in the province.
The new vacation period will now last until January 6, 2025, providing students, teachers, and staff additional time off amid the ongoing winter season.
This decision was communicated through an official notification issued by the Elementary and Secondary Education Department on Monday. The notification confirmed that the extension applies to all educational institutions across KPK, effective immediately. Authorities cited harsh weather conditions and potential difficulties in commuting due to dense fog and low temperatures as primary reasons for the decision.
The move has been welcomed by many parents and students, who were concerned about the challenges posed by severe weather during early mornings. KPK has been experiencing a significant drop in temperatures, particularly in hilly areas, where the weather has turned extremely cold. Dense fog in several plain areas has further complicated travel, especially for young children and staff commuting from rural regions.
In its statement, the Education Department emphasized the importance of prioritizing safety and well-being during such extreme weather conditions. Schools are encouraged to utilize the extended break for maintenance and planning, ensuring readiness for the remainder of the academic year once classes resume.
This extension follows a similar trend in other provinces of Pakistan, where authorities have adjusted school schedules to accommodate the winter season’s challenges. The decision also reflects the provincial government’s commitment to addressing public concerns and ensuring that students’ education continues uninterrupted once the weather improves.
Affected Schools and Alternative Plans
The announcement applies to all public and private sector institutions, covering urban and rural areas of the province. Parents are advised to stay in touch with school administrations for any updates or changes in reopening schedules.
The education department will closely monitor weather conditions over the coming days to ensure a smooth transition back to normal academic activities. Meanwhile, students are encouraged to use this time effectively for revision and preparation for upcoming exams.