Schools across Punjab and the Islamabad Capital Territory will remain closed on Monday, December 16, 2024, due to what officials describe as a “security situation.” Notifications issued by educational and administrative authorities confirmed the decision, which applies to both public and private institutions.
The Punjab School Education Department stated in its notification that the closure is necessary “in view of the prevailing situation in the province.” Offices, however, will remain open and are expected to function as usual. Similar directives were issued by the Islamabad District Magistrate, Lahore Deputy Commissioner Syed Musa Raza, and Rawalpindi Deputy Commissioner Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema.
Examinations scheduled in Rawalpindi for December 16 have also been postponed, according to DC Cheema. He clarified that the school closures in Rawalpindi are part of commemorations marking the tenth anniversary of the Army Public School (APS) attack in Peshawar, Pakistan’s deadliest terrorist attack, in which 141 people, including 131 children, were killed.
In Karachi, all Army Public Schools and Colleges will also remain closed on Monday to commemorate the APS attack, as per a notification sent to parents.
While no specific reasons were given for the closures in Lahore and Islamabad, the Rawalpindi announcement highlights the continuing significance of the APS tragedy, which occurred on December 16, 2014. The attack, carried out by heavily armed militants, targeted the school in Peshawar, leaving a lasting impact on the nation.
The closures come amidst heightened awareness of security concerns, with authorities aiming to ensure safety and provide space for reflection on a national tragedy that reshaped Pakistan’s fight against terrorism.