The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Private Schools Regulatory Authority (KP-PSRA) has officially banned all private schools from conducting examinations during winter vacations. The authority issued a serious notification instructing private educational institutions to cancel any planned exams immediately.
The notification, issued on December 26, states that PSRA received multiple reports that some private schools had issued exam schedules during the winter break. This was declared a direct violation of previously issued government policies.
Taking notice of these violations, the authority has strictly warned private schools not to hold tests, assessments, or any type of examination during holidays. PSRA stated that the decision is final and must be followed without exception.
Strict Disciplinary Action Announced
The notification clearly mentions that strong disciplinary action will be taken against any school found ignoring the orders. The actions will be taken under:
- KP-PSRA Act, 2017
- PSRA Regulations, 2018
According to officials, penalties may include:
- Fines imposed on schools
- Legal action against school administration
- Possible suspension of school registration in severe cases
This move shows that the government is serious about ensuring that private schools follow official education policies and do not burden students unnecessarily during severe winter conditions.
PSRA also reminded that private schools had already been informed earlier not to hold exams during winter vacations, but some institutions ignored the instruction. Therefore, the authority was left with no choice but to issue a strict warning once again.
KP Winter Vacation Schedule Announced
The Government of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has already announced winter vacation schedules for public and private schools across the province. The province is divided into different climatic zones, so the duration of holidays varies.
🔹 Summer Zone Schools
Schools located in relatively warmer districts will observe winter vacations from:
January 1 to January 15
These areas experience shorter winter periods; therefore, their holidays are shorter compared to cold regions.
🔹 Winter Zone Schools
Schools located in extremely cold, mountainous, and hilly areas will have longer holidays. These institutions will remain closed from:
December 22, 2025 to February 28, 2026
These regions usually experience heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and road blockages.
This long break has been announced to ensure student safety during the harsh season.
Why Did KP Ban Exams During Winter Vacations?
Winter in many parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa becomes extremely harsh. The government believes that forcing students to attend school for examinations during holidays is unsafe and unnecessary.
Some major reasons behind the ban include:
- Extremely low temperatures in several districts
- Heavy snowfall in northern and hilly areas
- Thick fog creating visibility issues
- Risk of seasonal illnesses like flu, fever, pneumonia
- Difficult travel and slippery roads
- Transportation issues for students in remote areas
The decision aims to protect students, teachers, and school staff from health and travel risks.
Government officials stated that no educational activity is more important than students’ lives and safety. Therefore, exams during winter vacations are strictly prohibited.
Ensuring Student Well-Being and Mental Relief
Winter vacations are meant to give students a break from studies, allow them to rest, spend time with families, and recover from academic stress. Conducting exams during holidays not only creates pressure but also eliminates the purpose of vacations.
Now students will be able to:
- Enjoy holidays peacefully
- Stay safe indoors during extreme cold
- Prepare for upcoming exams later with a fresh mind
- Spend time with family
Parents have also welcomed the decision, stating that sending children to school in such cold weather is dangerous and stressful.
Zero Tolerance Policy by PSRA
The Private Schools Regulatory Authority has clearly stated that it will implement zero tolerance against schools violating the notification. To ensure proper enforcement, monitoring teams may inspect schools.
PSRA has also encouraged parents to immediately report any private school that forces their children to attend exams during vacations. Complaints will help the department take swift action.
The authority emphasized that every school must obey government policies, and no institution is above the law.
Impact on Academic Calendar
Some schools attempted to conduct exams during vacations to save time or adjust their calendars. However, PSRA believes that academic planning should never compromise student safety.
Now, schools are expected to:
- Reschedule exams after winter holidays
- Adjust academic timetables
- Ensure students are not overloaded suddenly after reopening
Education experts say that delaying exams slightly will not damage academic performance. Instead, it will ensure student safety and mental peace.
Safety Comes First
The provincial government and PSRA have made it clear that student safety is the top priority. The decision reflects responsibility towards children, parents, and teachers.
With snowfall, freezing winds, fog, and health concerns during winter, banning exams was seen as the most reasonable and student-friendly move.
Conclusion – KP Bans Exams in Private Schools During Winter Vacations
The decision by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Private Schools Regulatory Authority to ban exams during winter vacations is a major and highly important step. It ensures student safety, protects them from harsh weather, prevents unnecessary stress, and enforces strict regulation over private schools.
With clear warnings of legal action, all private schools must strictly follow the notification. Meanwhile, winter vacations have already been announced for different zones, allowing students to remain safe and enjoy their holidays peacefully.
This move has been widely appreciated by parents, students, and education stakeholders, as it truly prioritizes the well-being of children over administrative convenience.