ISLAMABAD, Aug 1: The Federal Directorate of Education (FDE) has clarified that there would not be any extension to summer vacations due to the prevailing security situation and that all schools and colleges in the capital would reopen on August 15.

Since the Lal Masjid tragedy that was followed by a couple of suicide bombings in the city, there were strong rumours that the government was planning to extend the summer holidays.

However, when contacted, a senior official of the directorate made it clear that no such proposal was under consideration and all educational institutions running under its (FDE’s) jurisdiction within Islamabad limits would restart their classes according to the earlier schedule.

“Yes, we have received some suggestions from the concerned parents to prolong summer vacations till the time things get back to normal in the city,” he responded to a query. There is no doubt that it is a matter of concern for everybody who is living in the city, but it is just not possible to shut down schools and colleges and sit back home. Therefore, there would not be any delay in the academic session, he added.