Govt Declares Winter Vacation Schedule
Winter holidays for schools in Punjab and Balochistan have now been officially announced. Both provincial governments released notifications to guide parents and students about closures during the coldest part of the year. The schedule applies to all public and private schools. Here is the complete and updated breakdown.
| Province | Holiday Dates 2025–26 |
|---|---|
| Punjab | 23 Dec 2025 – 11 Jan 2026 |
| Balochistan (cold regions) | From 16 Dec 2025 |
| Punjab Schools Reopen | 12 Jan 2026 |
| Balochistan Cold Areas | 2.5-month break |
| Applies To | Govt + private schools |
| Reason | Extreme cold + smog |
| Notification | Provincial education dept |
| New Session | Starts after reopening |
Why Did Punjab Announce Winter Holidays Early?
Punjab Education Department issued the schedule to manage the expected drop in temperatures. Smog is also a key concern, especially in Lahore, Faisalabad, and Gujranwala. The official notification states that all schools will be closed from 23 December to 11 January. Both teachers and parents welcomed the clarity because it allows advance preparation for the long break.
What Makes Balochistan’s Winter Break Much Longer?
Balochistan follows a different system because many districts fall under severe winter zones. Schools in these colder areas will close from 16 December 2025 for around 2.5 months. This extended break is part of the province’s annual winter-bound schedule due to icy winds and difficult travel conditions for children.
| Balochistan Region Type | Holiday Duration |
|---|---|
| Winter-bound (cold areas) | 2.5 months |
| Normal regions | Standard schedule |
| Applies To | Govt + private schools |
| Reason | Harsh winter conditions |
| Reopening | As per local schedule |
| Safety Focus | Travel and health |
| Annual Practice | Yes |
| Notified By | Education department |
How Will These Punjab Winter Holidays Affect Exams?
Most schools will adjust mid-term or monthly tests before the break. In Punjab, exams scheduled for early January may shift slightly. In Balochistan, schools typically conduct exams before December due to the longer holidays.
Key Points Parents Should Know
- holidays apply to all government and private schools
- reopening dates must be followed strictly
- make sure children complete homework assigned for the break
- check school WhatsApp groups for reminders and notices
What Are the Main Reasons Behind the Holiday Schedule?
The government highlighted several important points that justify the winter break:
- low temperatures make morning travel unsafe for children
- smog levels in Punjab remain high in late December
- many rural areas experience foggy and blocked routes
- energy conservation becomes easier when schools close
How Can Schools Prepare Students Before the Break?
Schools have been advised to complete essential classwork and give manageable winter workbooks. Teachers may share digital notes through WhatsApp for students in remote areas.
Important Steps for Schools
- complete syllabus required before mid-January
- share homework early
- update parents with reopening reminders
- ensure classrooms are checked before closing
Helpline & Contact Information
Official updates are accessible through provincial education departments. Parents can call:
- Punjab School Education Dept Helpline: 042-111-11-2020
- Balochistan Education Dept Helpline: 081-9201183
- Official Website: https://moent.gov.pk
Conclusion
The Punjab Winter Holidays 2025 schedule for Punjab and Balochistan ensures student safety, especially during harsh weather and smog. With clear dates and notifications, families can plan the break smoothly while schools prepare for the next academic session.
FAQs
When do Punjab schools close for winter 2025?
Punjab schools close from 23 December 2025 to 11 January 2026.
Why is Balochistan’s winter break longer?
Because cold regions experience severe winter, making travel unsafe.
Does the holiday schedule apply to private schools?
Yes, all public and private schools must follow the same notification.
When do Punjab schools reopen?
Schools reopen on 12 January 2026.
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