Students and staff celebrate Ramaday and join together for Iftar

Just a few days after the start of Ramadan (10 March to 9 April), non-Muslim staff from across LJMU were invited to take part in a one-day fast, ‘Ramaday’ in support of Muslim students and staff.

Taking part in Ramaday

LJMU’s Islamic Society (ISOC) and the Diversity and Inclusion team hosted a free Iftar on campus for those taking part in Ramaday, with both Muslim and non-Muslim members of the LJMU community, to come together at sunset, break their fast, share some food and talk about their experience.

Ramaday is an opportunity to strengthen a sense of belonging amongst our community and to appreciate what fasting may feel like while at university.

Sophie Edwards, Islamic Society (ISOC) President said:

“Thank you to all those who attended the Ramaday Iftar, especially the staff members who took part in fasting for a day. It was a great experience, and we look forward to collaborating on more projects in the future!”

Professor Phil Vickerman, PVC Student Experience took part in the fast, and he shared:

“I would like to thank ISOC for inviting us to join them for Iftar. This is the first year that we have hosted Ramaday on campus and it was great to see colleagues from various faculties and departments take part. I really enjoyed talking to our students and getting a glimpse of how they may be feeling like during the period of fasting. I would encourage other colleagues and students to get involved in this initiative next year.”

Carolyn Williams, Director of Student Recruitment also decided to take part in Ramaday and she invited her team to join.

She said: “Sarah Andrews and I from the Student Recruitment team fully enjoyed Ramaday. We found it insightful and a privilege to be involved. We have a number of colleagues in our department who are fasting and we wanted to understand how this may feel. Walid Ben Tarcha, who joined our team a few months ago, has already let us know he really appreciates seeing us take part and believes this initiative truly reflects the spirit of inclusivity and understanding in our workplace.”

What is Ramadan?

Ramadan represents the holy month in the Islamic calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide and is a time of reflection, spirituality, charity, and community sharing. Fasting from dawn to sunset is part of Ramadan and Iftar signifies the time to break the daily fast at sunset. During Ramadan, Muslims will abstain from food and water during daylight hours.

Joining ISOC and support at LJMU for students

ISOC is hosting another two events for Iftar on campus during Ramadan. To find out more and join ISOC click here.

Students can also find out more information, including meeting the chaplaincy team, multi-faith and quiet spaces on campus, and faith spaces beyond LJMU here.

Support at LJMU for staff

Staff can find out more about diversity and inclusion support available, faith spaces on campus and joining a staff network here.