ISLAMABAD – The Ministry of Education has announced that all public and private schools across Pakistan will remain closed until August 31, extending the summer vacation period due to the ongoing extreme heatwave affecting large parts of the country.
The decision, confirmed on Thursday, comes after strong recommendations from provincial education departments and health officials, citing health risks for children and staff amid record-breaking temperatures in several regions.
Previously scheduled to reopen by mid-August, schools will now resume classes from Monday, September 2, after the extended break.
“The safety of students is our top priority. In view of the persistent high temperatures, the summer vacations are being extended until August 31,” said an official from the Federal Education Ministry.
Parents and teachers have welcomed the decision, noting that younger children, in particular, are vulnerable to heat-related illnesses during commuting hours and outdoor school activities.
Several provinces, including Punjab, Sindh, and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, had already hinted at pushing back reopening dates due to the ongoing heatwave and poor air quality in urban areas.
Private school associations have also been instructed to comply strictly with the extension, and any violations may result in penalties or action by local authorities.
Educational institutions are expected to issue updated academic calendars to accommodate the lost time once regular classes resume.
