When toxic smog forced schools across Punjab to close in November 2024, the learning of almost 16 million children was disrupted. Widespread flooding and waterlogging during the months of August and September 2025 forced another disruption to teaching and learning. Heatwaves, floods, fog and extreme cold are producing similar interruptions elsewhere in Pakistan. Each episode prompts another emergency announcement, altered examination date or temporary closure. The pattern has become familiar, yet the academic calendar still treats these hazards as exceptional events. Pakistan’s education system needs to move from emergency closures to anticipatory planning. A climate-responsive school calendar offers a practical and relatively affordable place to begin.

The timing of climate hazards is changing. In several parts of the country, temperatures exceed 45°C during May, before scheduled summer holidays begin. Many schools lack adequate ventilation, shade, drinking water and reliable electricity. Children continue attending classes in conditions that increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. In parts of Punjab, schools may reopen after the winter break while smog, fog and respiratory risks remain severe. Sindh faces recurrent monsoon flooding and waterlogging, while colder regions experience a different combination of seasonal hazards. A fixed calendar cannot respond effectively to........

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