SRINAGAR: The Jammu and Kashmir Higher Education Department has proposed 50-day winter vacations for colleges in the Kashmir division starting from 27 December. Colleges in the Jammu division are likely to observe a 10-day winter break.
Quoting Director Colleges, Sheikh Ajaz Bashir, KNO reported that a proposal for vacations has been submitted to the government, and the final decision is awaited. “As per the academic planner, we have proposed a 50-day winter vacation for Kashmir colleges from 27 December to 14 February,” he said.
Additionally, the department has directed university deans to avoid scheduling examinations during the vacation period. The Higher Education Department noted in its Uniform Academic Calendar that exams held during vacations disrupt planned breaks for students and staff, causing logistical challenges for colleges.
The department highlighted that extreme climatic conditions, such as severe cold waves and dense fog in the winter zone and scorching heat in the summer zone, hinder academic activities during peak seasons. To address this, universities have been advised to ensure that vacations are uninterrupted, allowing students and staff to take a proper break.
Regarding heating arrangements in Kashmir colleges, officials confirmed that proper facilities have been instructed to be in place for students and staff.
Earlier, the School Education Department announced phased winter vacations in the Kashmir division and winter zones of Jammu. For students up to 5th standard, vacations began on 10 December, while for students from 6th to 12th standard, vacations will commence on 16 December, continuing until 28 February 2025.
