Winter vacations in schools and colleges are announced every year during the last ten days of December, but this schedule no longer matches the changing weather conditions. In recent years, December has remained largely normal in temperature, making these holidays unproductive and unnecessary.
Due to climate change, the traditional winter pattern has shifted. Extreme cold, dense fog and harsh weather conditions now begin from the very first days of January rather than in late December. Consequently, when educational institutions reopen after the vacations, students are forced to attend classes in severe cold and poor weather conditions. This results in health problems, low attendance, transportation difficulties and disruption of the teaching-learning process.
Students, especially at the primary and secondary levels, suffer the most during this period. Teachers also find it difficult to maintain regular academic activities amid extreme weather. The purpose of winter vacations — to protect students from harsh conditions — is therefore defeated.
The concerned authorities should reconsider the existing policy and announce winter vacations according to current climatic trends instead of following an outdated routine. Adjusting vacations to early or mid-January would be more practical and beneficial. It is hoped that this issue will be given serious consideration in the interest of students.
Aamir Khan Wagan
Larkana
