The Kerala government has declared a holiday for all educational institutions across the state on Monday in view of the FIFA World Cup final, which is scheduled to be played in the early hours of the morning.
Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan has directed that all schools, colleges and professional educational institutions remain closed for the day.
However, examinations that were scheduled in advance will be conducted as planned. The government is expected to issue the formal notification shortly.
The decision follows demands from the opposition and various other quarters urging the government to declare a holiday for students. Former Education Minister V. Sivankutty had earlier observed that it would be difficult for students to attend classes after staying up late to watch the World Cup final, which is expected to conclude after midnight.
The holiday has been announced to accommodate the late-night schedule of the tournament's title clash, while ensuring that previously scheduled examinations proceed according to the existing timetable.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 final will feature defending champions Argentina taking on Spain in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament.
