Guide to supporting Muslim students and staff during Ramadan in HE
Dr Shames Maskeen (Leeds Trinity University) has produced a practical resource for Higher Education (HE) providers to support Muslim students and staff during Ramadan.
Most Muslims will not require any specific adjustments but some may appreciate small but meaningful changes. HE providers should apply the guide to their own context and listen to the needs of their own Muslim students and staff.
“Fasting, Faith and Flexibility: Supporting Muslim Students and Staff during Ramadan in Higher Education” is grounded in lived experience. It aims to:
- Demystify Ramadan for non-Muslim staff and students
- Share best practices on awareness, inclusive events, wellbeing, access to facilities and academic considerations
- Equip staff and students with the knowledge and confidence to be meaningfully inclusive
- Create a community of practice, developing a culture of respect and sense of connectedness
The e-resource has been co-designed with Muslims and non-Muslims across the HE sector.
It seeks to address ‘institutional nervousness’ from well-intentioned colleagues who genuinely want to support Muslim students and staff during Ramadan but feel unsure where to start. Many are curious but hesitant, worried about saying the wrong thing or causing offence. While HE providers are increasingly attuned to racial inclusion, religious inclusion still needs greater attention.
