As university students observing Ramadan, we encounter significant challenges in balancing religious duties with academic requirements during this sacred month. Fasting from sunrise to sunset results in decreased energy levels and reduced concentration, making it exceptionally difficult to attend classes, fulfil part-time employment commitments, study for exams, and complete assignments on time.
Additionally, due to early morning commitments, many of us struggle to consume the pre-dawn suhoor meal. This lack of time, compounded by packed schedules, makes it challenging to find moments for rest and breaks to rehydrate. After breaking the fast at sunset, we often find ourselves rushing to complete unfinished tasks well into the late-night hours.
I strongly advocate for institutions to offer greater flexibility in class scheduling, attendance policies, and exam timing to better accommodate Muslim students during the holy month of Ramadan. Understanding and accommodating our needs will help us maintain our religious beliefs while striving to achieve our academic goals. It is, therefore, hoped that the university authorities and the education ministry would spare some thoughts regarding this matter.
Anisa Fatema Ahmed , Student
North South University
anisa.fatema@northsouth.edu