The latest government announcement regarding the annual holiday schedule has resulted in the closure of primary and secondary schools (classes I-X) starting today for the duration of Ramadan. The decision, which extends until March 26, was conveyed through separate notifications issued by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Primary and Mass Education.
Due to March 26 falling on a Thursday, teachers and staff members will enjoy an extended break including the weekend (Friday and Saturday) until March 28. This adjustment alters the previously published 2026 holiday timetable.
The government’s directive follows a ruling by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court on February 16, which halted a High Court order instructing the closure of all secondary schools throughout Ramadan. The Appellate Division’s chamber judge, Justice Farah Mahbub, issued the stay order in response to a government petition.
The High Court had issued the initial order on February 15 after a preliminary hearing of a writ petition filed by Supreme Court lawyer Elyas Ali Mondal. The petition contested the legality of keeping secondary schools open during the first 18 days of Ramadan.
Despite the stay order, the government’s decision to keep schools operational until the 18th day of Ramadan was upheld until the recent revision, which now enforces the closure starting today, coinciding with the commencement of Ramadan.