In the sweltering heat of summer 2025, medical and dental students across Pakistan are facing a particularly harsh reality: no summer vacations. As the country battles one of the most severe heat waves in its history, with temperatures soaring above 45°C (113°F) in major cities like Lahore, Karachi, and Multan. Students are still expected to attend lectures and continue their academic routines without the traditional break. This situation has sparked widespread concern and frustration among the student body and their families.
This year, the academic calendar for the 2024–2025 session was significantly delayed due to extended admission processes and administrative complications. As a result, classes did not commence until April. The late start has left institutions with little flexibility to accommodate the usual summer holidays, and many medical colleges have either limited the break to just one week in July or eliminated it altogether. This has placed a heavy burden on students, especially in the context of Pakistan unrelenting summer heat.
Second and Third-Year Students Face the Toughest Challenges
For second and third-year medical and dental students, the situation is even more taxing. These students are adjusting to the newly introduced MBBS curriculum modules, which have added to their workload and stress levels. The absence of a proper summer break has only intensified the pressure. A third-year student from King Edward Medical University, who requested anonymity, shared their struggle We are expected to give our best, but the system is burning us out. This sentiment reflects the growing concern among students that their mental and physical well being is being overlooked in favor of academic deadlines.
Hostel Conditions Worsen Under Extreme Heat
The situation becomes even more challenging for students living in hostels. Many hostels are unequipped to handle extreme temperatures, with air conditioning units either unavailable or frequently malfunctioning. For these students, the oppressive heat turns their living spaces into unbearable environments. A second-year dental student from Karachi described it bluntly We are learning medicine and yet we are being compelled to live in health threatening conditions. Some students have taken to sleeping in common rooms or libraries. Desperately seeking any area with slightly better ventilation or cooling systems.
A Call for Balance Between Academics and Well Being
Despite the challenges, the resolve and resilience of medical students in Pakistan remain strong. These young professionals understand the importance of their education and future roles in society. However, they also recognize the necessity of rest, recovery, and humane treatment during their educational journey. The current situation serves as a reminder of the need for a more compassionate and student centered approach within the country’s medical education system.
Student Protests Call for Academic Reforms and Fairness
This growing discontent has led to a wave of student protests and public appeals. Medical and dental students are increasingly voicing their concerns through press releases, demonstrations, and petitions. They are urging university administrations and the Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) to reconsider. The academic schedule in light of the unprecedented weather conditions and student welfare. Many argue that it is unjust for only medical and dental students to endure this grueling routine while students in other academic fields are granted the usual summer vacations.
Institutions Must Act to Protect Future Healthcare Professionals
The broader conversation now must address how institutions can strike a balance between maintaining academic schedules and safeguarding student well being. The continuation of studies during extreme weather conditions should come with appropriate infrastructure support. It’s including functional cooling systems in hostels and reasonable academic adjustments. Without these, the quality of education and the health of future doctors and dentists may be at serious risk.
ParhloPakistan: Giving Students a Voice in Times of Crisis
At ParhloPakistan, we are committed to highlighting the real issues faced by students across Pakistan. Our platform serves as a reliable source for educational updates, news, and resources that matter to the academic community. We aim to bring such crucial topics to light and support students by providing timely information and a space to voice their concerns. Whether it’s past papers, exam schedules, or student welfare matters. ParhloPakistan is your go to source for everything education-related in Pakistan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the lack of summer holidays for medical and dental students this year reflects deeper systemic issues in academic planning and student support. While dedication to education is admirable, it should not come at the cost of health and well-being. As the heatwave continues to break records, it is time for academic authorities to step up, listen to student concerns, and implement changes that reflect empathy, responsibility, and foresight.
