In a familiar pattern, the Ministry of Education has announced that schools across Pakistan will observe a 9-day holiday in February. While these long breaks are part of the annual academic calendar, they always spark a mix of excitement and frustration among students, teachers, and parents alike.
The break, set to begin from February 19 to February 27, will coincide with the winter break that many schools follow, making it a long-awaited respite for students. However, the timing often leads to debates regarding the balance between school holidays and academic rigor. As parents worry about the interruption to learning, students eagerly anticipate the extended time off.
The decision to maintain such long breaks reflects the standard approach towards holidays in Pakistan’s education system, but it raises questions about the impact on learning outcomes, particularly for those students who might require more instructional time. Despite this, schools across the country continue to follow these longstanding traditions.
For now, the upcoming break offers an opportunity for relaxation, family time, and, for some, a chance to travel or pursue extracurricular activities. However, the familiar cycle of breaks and studies is unlikely to change anytime soon, as both students and educational institutions continue to follow the same old rules.