The Private Schools Regulatory Authority (PSRA) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has imposed a complete ban on examinations during the winter vacation period, directing all private schools to cancel any tests scheduled within the holiday timeframe. The order was issued in an official notification dated December 26, following reports that several institutions were attempting to conduct exams despite earlier restrictions.
According to the notification, the PSRA noted that some private schools had circulated exam schedules for the winter break in violation of existing directives. The authority has instructed schools to halt such plans immediately and warned that any non-compliant institution will face disciplinary action under the KP-PSRA Act, 2017, and the KP-PSRA Regulations, 2018. Officials stressed that no exemptions will be permitted and the policy applies to all private educational institutions across the province.
This measure aligns with the provincial government’s approved winter vacation schedule, which differs by region. Schools located in summer zones will remain closed from January 1 to January 15, while institutions in winter zones will observe a longer closure from December 22, 2025, to February 28, 2026.
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The decision is primarily intended to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff amid harsh weather conditions, including fog, snowfall, and freezing temperatures in hilly and remote districts. Authorities maintain that the ban supports academic continuity while prioritizing health and protection during peak winter challenges.