Islamabad – The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has officially announced the winter vacation schedule for schools and colleges under its jurisdiction. The notification, issued on Wednesday, outlines the dates for the upcoming winter break across the federal capital.
Winter Break Schedule
According to the FDE notification, all model schools and colleges in Islamabad will close for winter holidays starting December 26, 2025. Educational institutions will remain closed until January 3, 2026, with regular classes set to resume on Monday, January 5, 2026.
This annual winter break provides students and staff with a chance to rest, spend time with family, and prepare for the second half of the academic session.
Also Read: Sindh Announces Winter School Holidays from 22–31 December
Context and Significance
Winter vacations in Pakistan usually span one to two weeks, depending on the region and school system. In Islamabad, the FDE oversees approximately 150 model schools and colleges, educating tens of thousands of students from primary to higher secondary levels.
These holidays are particularly important in the capital, where temperatures can drop significantly in December and January, often dipping below 5°C (41°F) during the night. The break allows students to avoid travel and exposure to extreme cold while giving teachers time for curriculum planning.
Nationwide Patterns
While the FDE governs only federal schools, most provincial education departments follow a similar schedule, with slight variations based on climate and regional academic calendars. For example, Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa schools often announce winter vacations in the last week of December, whereas Sindh schools sometimes start their break slightly later.
The winter vacation is part of the broader academic calendar, which includes mid-term breaks, summer holidays, and national holidays. These scheduled breaks ensure that schools balance instructional time with opportunities for student rest and extracurricular engagement.
Impact on Students and Parents
For students, the winter break provides a valuable pause from academic pressure, allowing them time to revise previous lessons and prepare for upcoming exams. Parents often plan family trips or educational activities during this period.
Many schools also use the break to conduct maintenance work, upgrade facilities, and train teaching staff. These improvements are essential for maintaining the quality of education and providing a safe learning environment.
Looking Ahead
As schools reopen on January 5, the second term of the academic year will begin. Students are expected to return refreshed and ready to continue their studies. Educational authorities emphasize the importance of punctual attendance and adherence to the academic calendar to ensure minimal disruption to learning.
In the coming months, the FDE will also announce schedules for national exams, mid-term assessments, and summer holidays. Parents and students are advised to regularly check official FDE notifications for updates.
