By Innocent Manda
Government through the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education has announced that the 2025/26 academic year will commence on September 22, 2025 and conclude on July 24, 2026 covering 40 learning weeks across three terms.
According to a press statement issued on July 10, signed by Secretary for Basic and Secondary Education, Dr. Rachel Chimbwete Phiri, the academic year is structured to ensure uniformity across all public and private institutions offering the national curriculum.
“The first term will begin on 22nd September, 2025 and end on 19th December, 2025, followed by a two-week holiday. This term will run for 13 weeks.
“The second term will start on 5th January, 2026 and close on 2nd April, 2026 also running for 13 weeks, followed by another two-week break,” the statement reads.
It adds: “The third term is scheduled from 20th April, 2026 to 24th July, 2026, covering 14 weeks, followed by a seven-week holiday leading into the next academic year,” reads part of the press release.
However, the ministry emphasized that all institutions offering the national curriculum must strictly follow the set calendar, stating that no school is permitted to operate outside this official schedule.
“The school calendar is harmonised for all levels to ensure quality and consistency in education delivery,” the statement further read.
This harmonised calendar is aimed at promoting equal access to quality education across the country, ensuring all learners benefit from structured learning periods and coordinated academic breaks.
