Islamabad, Dec 18, 2025 – The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has officially declared winter vacations for schools and colleges in Islamabad, giving students and staff a well-timed break as temperatures drop across the country.
According to the FDE’s notification, all federal educational institutions, including Islamabad Model Schools and Colleges in both urban and rural areas, will remain closed from December 26, 2025 to January 3, 2026. With January 4 falling on a Sunday, classes will resume on Monday, January 5, 2026.
The official schedule aims to protect students and teachers from the severe winter weather and dense fog conditions that have been affecting major parts of Pakistan. Similar winter breaks have been announced nationwide, with provinces tailoring schedules based on local climates.
To ensure academic continuity, the Directorate has also designated Saturday, January 10, 2026, as a working day for administrative, teaching, and non-teaching staff to cover priority tasks and make up for instructional time lost during the vacation period.
Across the country, educational authorities are adjusting timetables in response to harsh weather. For example, in neighboring Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, schools and colleges in winter zones will observe extended closures to safeguard students in colder districts.
The announcement comes amid broader weather-related disruptions affecting public schedules. In fact, election proceedings in Gilgit-Baltistan were delayed due to extreme weather conditions, demonstrating how winter storms are impacting civic life as well.
Parents and educators have welcomed the decision, noting that the break provides a much-needed rest period while ensuring that academic calendars remain on track into 2026. With winter forecasts predicting continued cold spells, authorities say the vacation will also reduce health risks for students.
As Islamabad’s winter vacations begin, families and students are gearing up for a festive break before the resumption of studies in early January, marking a seasonal pause that balances education and well-being.
