Observing Ramadan: guidance for staff and students

12 Apr 2022

What you need to know about supporting colleagues observing Ramadan

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan takes place in the ninth lunar month of the Islamic Calendar, when Muslims believe the Quran (Islamic holy book) was revealed to the Prophet Muhammed. It is a holy month for Muslims when they abstain from eating and drinking and any other physical needs during the daylight hours. As a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice. Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking.

When will Ramadan take place?

Ramadan will commence on 2 April until 2 May 2022 approximately, depending on moon sightings.

What happens during fasting?

Over the course of the month, Muslims fast from sunrise, rising pre-dawn for the Suhour meal, until sunset when the fast is open or broken with a Iftar meal. Fasting has been shown to demonstrate health benefits as well as an appreciation of what people have and a greater empathy for people in need.

Fasting is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and during this time, Muslims may increase activities such as:

Spending more time on prayers and reflection such as Tarawih. This is with the aim of increasing taqwa or a closeness to God
Volunteering, giving to charity and acts of goodwill
Sharing their Iftar food and experiences with family, friends, neighbours, colleagues, and people who will be observing Ramadan on their own

How can you help a student or colleague who is fasting during Ramadan:

Speak to your students and colleagues about their faith and experiences and ask if they require any support e.g. breaks for prayers or change to start times
Where possible avoid early morning meetings or late evening (social) events which may affect Iftar and evening prayers
Whilst Muslim colleagues and students may not object to food and drink being consumed in their presence, you may wish to avoid this and allow for flexibility for colleagues and students to have breaks where needed.
Make colleagues and students aware of the University-wide support available to them such as the Multi-Faith Chaplains, the University of Manchester Islamic Society ISoc and Student and Staff Wellbeing support as well as relevant staff networks such as the BAME Staff Network.