Areas in summer zone to observe holidays from Jan 1 to 15, while vacations in winter zones to be from Dec 23 to Feb 28
Winter holidays for Shangla and other upper regions of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa begin tomorrow (Tuesday) as examinations conclude. The provincial government has announced holidays for all government and private schools, universities, colleges, and degree-awarding institutions.
According to the notification, the holiday schedule will be implemented based on ‘summer and winter zones’ classifications to align with the regional weather conditions.
For institutions located in the summer zone or plains, winter vacations will be observed from January 1 to 15, 2026. Given the relatively mild weather in these areas, the shorter break ensures minimal disruption to academic activities.
Meanwhile, education institutions in the winter zone, including hilly and snowbound regions, will have extended winter holidays from December 23 to February 28, 2026. The Higher Education Department stated that the longer break is necessary due to severe cold, snowfall, and travel difficulties, ensuring the safety and convenience of students, teachers, and other staff.
The department emphasised that the notification applies uniformly across all public and private institutions in the province, instructing them to strictly adhere to the holiday schedule. Education circles have welcomed the decision, noting that zone-based holidays not only maintain continuity in academic activities but also prioritise the welfare and safety of students as well as teaching and non-teaching staff.
