Students in Pakistan are set to enjoy an extended break as educational institutions will be closed from October 12 to October 16, coinciding with preparations for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit. The federal government has implemented these measures as part of comprehensive security arrangements for the event, which is expected to bring together various heads of state and their representatives.
The closure will provide students with an opportunity for a long weekend, as schools will already be closed on Saturday and Sunday, October 12 and 13. The additional holidays declared by the government mean that educational institutions will remain closed on Monday, October 14, Tuesday, October 15, and Wednesday, October 16. This results in a total of five consecutive days off for students, allowing them to enjoy an extended break from their studies.
The SCO summit, scheduled to take place in Islamabad on October 15 and 16, will be attended by numerous high-profile dignitaries, including Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar. His visit to Pakistan will mark a significant moment, as it will be his first trip to the country, highlighting the importance of the summit and the discussions expected to take place.
In light of the summit, the government has taken strict security measures to ensure the safety of all attendees and residents. The military has been deployed in Islamabad under Article 245, which allows for military assistance in maintaining law and order. The military presence will remain in the capital until October 17, reinforcing the security framework during this critical period.
Residents of the twin cities, Islamabad and Rawalpindi, will have holidays from October 14 to October 16, allowing families to spend quality time together. The decision to close schools during this time reflects the government’s commitment to prioritizing safety and security while accommodating the needs of the educational sector.
The SCO summit is expected to foster discussions on various regional issues and strengthen cooperation among member states. With the significant international attention the summit is receiving, the extended holidays for students serve as a reminder of the importance of this event and its implications for Pakistan’s diplomatic relations and regional stability.
As students prepare for their break, the focus will also be on ensuring a smooth and secure environment for the summit, allowing for fruitful discussions among leaders from different nations. The anticipation surrounding the SCO summit, combined with the extended holiday, has created a buzz among students and residents alike.