March 22, 2023
What Ramadan means to me?
Ramadan is a spiritual month for Muslims and fasting during this month is one of the five pillars of Islam. Fasting during Ramadan is a commitment of the body and soul to a purification process, and people who are fasting will not eat or drink for approximately 17 to 18 hours during the day. At Elliott Hudson College we are proud of our diverse community and spoke to our staff and students about what Ramadan means to them.
Ahmed Ahmed, Year 13:
“Ramadan is like the Rain. It nourishes the seed of good deeds, it’s a time for Muslims to start a clean sheet, a time to remember their creator and a time which humbles the Muslims into becoming grateful for what they have been given in this life. It brings us closer to our loved ones and reminds us to appreciate the blessings in our lives while trying to improve the lives of others through charity and good deeds.
Elliot Hudson College allows students to freely practice this time of the year with full support, with teachers celebrating and motivating us every step of the way. This makes students like me feel accepted and grateful to be a part of this college and community knowing I can freely practice my religion whilst also gaining a high-quality education.”
Yasmin Saloo, Year 13:
“Ramadan is the month in which the Quran was revealed. For me, the Quran holds great significance as it strengthens my connection with God and offers guidance throughout my life. Ramadan also provides physical and mental rejuvenation through fasting and reflection through which I become a better person and Muslim by the end. I particularly enjoy the sense of community and togetherness during the month, as we break our fast as a family and create lasting memories.”
Uzair Mohammed
“Ramadan is a time when I feel more connected to God on a deeper level. As a Muslim, this month holds great significance for me. It’s a time when I feel the presence of God more than ever. However, it’s not just about the religious aspect. Ramadan is also a time for me to work on myself. Fasting teaches me self-discipline and resilience, qualities that are incredibly important, especially when I’m facing the pressure of A-Levels.”
EHC Voice Podcast – Understanding Islam
Ahmed and Uzair both featured on the EHC Voice student podcast in the episode “Understanding Islam” where they share more about their faith and what it means to them.
Marya Hussain, Health & Social Care Teacher:
“Ramadan is a very important time of year for Muslims and is one of the pillars of Islam thus highlighting its significance. It is a time for reflection and provides Muslims with the opportunity to show gratitude for the blessings in their lives while strengthening their belief system, cleansing their souls, and encouraging them to undertake charitable deeds to help others.
At EHC, 17% of our students are Muslim and we try our best to support them during Ramadan.
The determination, resilience, and patience the students demonstrate is inspiring. Students have access to a multifaith room on a daily basis where they are able to pray throughout the day, with ablution facilities, and on Friday’s students are able to lead the congregational prayer.
Staff have undertaken additional training to understand what Ramadan means to the Muslim students and ways in which they can be supported. During this period, musical events have been postponed as a mark of respect for the Muslim community within the college and the timing of the college day has been moved forward by 10 minutes on a Friday to allow students more time to complete their prayers. At the end of Ramadan we celebrate Eid with the students with a display in culture corner raising awareness of Eid and providing snacks that are often consumed on Eid day.”