Kerala declares a holiday for schools and higher education institutions on Monday, July 20, in view of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain. Multiple reports say the match is scheduled for late night, running after midnight into early Monday hours, which could make it difficult for students to reach morning classes. The decision is attributed to appeals and requests from students and football enthusiasts, amplified through social media, and is supported by political leaders and education officials. Several outlets report that Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan directs the holiday, with the General Education Department covering schools and the Higher Education Department covering colleges, universities and professional institutions. Times of India and other sources add that pre-scheduled examinations continue as planned, while the educational calendar adjusts for the missed working day, including references to a make-up day on a Saturday. Separate reports note that the higher education holiday is announced to prevent travel difficulties after the match and to allow students to watch the final without disruption. Other states are also mentioned in connection with similar moves, but the detailed decision in these reports focuses on Kerala.