K-P Schools Closed March 24–29 After Eid Break; Online Classes Encouraged
PESHAWAR:
In a move aimed at conserving fuel and electricity amid ongoing energy pressures, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has announced an additional six-day holiday for all public and private educational institutions across the province.
According to an official notification issued by the Elementary and Secondary Education Department, schools, colleges, and other educational facilities will remain closed from March 24 to March 29. The decision follows the Eidul Fitr holidays and forms part of a wider provincial strategy focused on energy conservation and efficient governance.
Officials said the step is intended to cut down energy use associated with school operations, including student transport, heating, lighting, and administrative activities during a period of high demand and limited supply. By extending the closure, authorities aim to achieve significant savings in fuel and electricity without causing long-term disruption to the academic calendar.
To minimise academic disruption, the department has strongly urged schools and colleges to shift to online teaching or adopt home-schooling where internet access and digital tools are available. Teachers have been advised to record lessons, share assignments via WhatsApp groups or learning platforms, and conduct virtual assessments where possible.
Despite the closures, school administrations, clerical staff, and admission teams are required to continue reporting to work to manage routine tasks, process admissions, maintain records, and handle urgent administrative matters.
The decision has drawn mixed reactions from education stakeholders. Supporters say it will ease energy pressures and reflect responsible governance at a time of fluctuating fuel prices. Critics, especially from remote areas like Shangla, Upper Dir, Chitral, and parts of Kohistan, argue that poor or non-existent internet connectivity will make online learning ineffective, potentially widening the education gap for many students.
The department has instructed district education officers and school heads to ensure strict implementation of the decision and to clearly inform parents and local communities. Parents, in turn, are encouraged to keep their children engaged in self-study and follow alternative learning plans provided by schools.
This latest closure comes after the earlier introduction of weekly holidays on Fridays and Saturdays, implemented during the academic year for similar conservation reasons. It highlights the province’s ongoing effort to balance the continuity of education with effective resource management amid persistent energy challenges.
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