Punjab Home Department Announces New Job Openings. The government of Azad Jammu and Kashmir has officially approved winter vacations for all public and private educational institutions across the region. The decision was confirmed through a formal notification issued by the Elementary and Secondary Education Department in late December 2025. The move aims to protect students and staff from harsh winter conditions, especially in colder areas.
Official Notification and Approval
According to the notification, the Secretary of the Elementary and Secondary Education Department has formally signed the winter vacation schedule. The decision applies to all government and private schools without exception. Authorities stated that the schedule was finalized after reviewing weather conditions and academic needs.
Winter Vacation Schedule for Cold Areas
Schools located in cold and mountainous areas of Azad Jammu and Kashmir will observe an extended winter break. These institutions will remain closed from 26 December 2025 to 26 February 2026. This results in a total closure period of 63 days.
Education officials said the longer break is necessary due to heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and limited access in remote regions. These conditions often make daily travel unsafe for students and teachers.
Schedule for Warmer Areas
For schools in relatively warmer areas of Azad Kashmir, a shorter winter vacation has been announced. These institutions will close from 29 December 2025 to 10 January 2026. The total break period will be 13 days.
Authorities explained that weather conditions in these areas remain manageable, allowing for a shorter academic pause without disrupting learning goals.
Applies to All Public and Private Schools
The notification clearly states that the winter vacation schedule applies equally to government and private educational institutions. No school is allowed to alter the approved dates without official permission. Education departments have instructed school administrations to ensure full compliance.
Similar Decisions Across Pakistan
The announcement aligns with winter vacation plans across other parts of the country. In Islamabad, schools and colleges under the Federal Directorate of Education will remain closed from 26 December 2025 to 3 January 2026. Classes will resume on 5 January 2026. Private institutions regulated by PEIRA have also been directed to follow the same schedule.
In Punjab, winter vacations for schools and colleges have been set from 22 December 2025 to 10 January 2026. Meanwhile, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has adopted a zone-based approach, with longer breaks in colder regions and shorter closures in warmer areas.
Impact on Students and Parents
The winter break gives students time to stay safe indoors during extreme weather. It also allows families to plan travel and manage heating needs more effectively. Teachers and school staff benefit from reduced travel risks during peak winter conditions.
Education authorities advised parents to ensure children stay engaged in light reading and revision during the break to avoid learning gaps.
FAQs
When do winter vacations start in cold areas of Azad Kashmir?
Winter vacations begin on 26 December 2025 and end on 26 February 2026.
How long is the winter break in warmer areas?
Schools in warmer areas will close for 13 days, from 29 December 2025 to 10 January 2026.
Does the schedule apply to private schools?
Yes. The schedule applies to both government and private institutions.
Will schools reopen immediately after the break ends?
Yes. Schools are expected to resume classes on the first working day after the vacation period ends.
Why are vacation dates different by area?
The dates vary due to differences in weather severity across regions.
Conclusion
The winter vacation announcement by the Azad Kashmir government provides clarity and relief for students, parents, and educators. By setting separate schedules for cold and warmer areas, authorities have addressed safety concerns while maintaining academic balance. With similar measures in place across Pakistan, the coordinated approach reflects a nationwide effort to protect students during the winter season.
