School children resume classes for new term, fast in Ramadan

Abu Dhabi: Private schools across the UAE started their new term this week, which coincides with the last third of Ramadan. After the two-week break, students have a shorter school day, usually lasting only four to six hours.

As a result, thousands of fasting children were able to attend classes while completing their Ramadan fasts.

The school has also set up a dedicated Ramadan corner and has dedicated classes to share the values ​​of spirituality, sacrifice and empathy, which are an important part of Ramadan. Students can then learn about the benefits of fasting and charity in the company of friends.

The entire schooling experience during Ramadan sparks a general sense of camaraderie within the community.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to celebrate my faith and connect with others in a meaningful way. I appreciate the opportunity to continue studying and learn new things while fulfilling my religious obligations. When I share Ramadan with my peers I also value the sense of community and the support I feel at school when I go through my experience,” Alishba Khan, a Grade 9 student at GEMS Wesgreen International School in Sharjah, told gulf news.

“I feel good because at school we study and time flies so I don’t feel so tired and fasting is easier. I’m also happy to see all my friends. At school we [get to] Enjoy fun activities while fasting,” added Wdeema Hamdan AlMehrzi, a sixth-year student at GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi.

Most schools start the new term on Monday and classes will continue until the Eid break.

“The first day at school was filled with enthusiasm and excitement. It is truly a wonderful feeling to see the extended family at the school. On this occasion of Ramadan, we are inspired on key aspects of Ramadan and reinforce our sense of the place we live in understanding of the land. We also [make it a point to] Follow the prophetic values ​​of tolerance and harmony,” said Khaleel Gibran, a Grade 12 student at Dunes International School.

This year, the children were able to observe beyond the first half of Ramadan during spring break. Returning to school, even with reduced class time, can bring some burnout.

“Overall, my first day back at school during Ramadan was a time of mixed emotions. On the one hand, I felt a sense of joy and connection as I was reunited with my classmates and teachers after a long break. On the other hand, I think [some of] The physical and emotional toll of fasting during the day, [can make it difficult to] Focus on the class,” Khan said.

To ease the fasting days, the school has reduced the frequency of physical education classes. Many institutions also allow fasting children to skip certain strenuous activities, even if they participate in physical education classes.

There is also an overall focus on sharing with vulnerable groups.

“The whole Dunes family comes together in acts of sharing and giving. [We are running] Charity events on school campuses collect daily essentials which will be distributed to support staff.Young Duniters curate again with ‘service first, self second’ message [to encourage] contribution to society,” said Paramjit Ahluwalia, principal and director of Dunes International School.

“With most of our parent-chosen Ramadan times in place well before spring break, students and teachers quickly returned to their daily routines today. Every year, we think carefully about how we can support our students and their families during Ramadan.

“While we continue to teach the full curriculum, we take this time into account, taking into account student activities and parent activities, always keeping Ramadan in mind. For Muslim families in our community, Ramadan represents an important time of year and we Excited for the upcoming Interfaith Community Eid on four nights,” said Tara Foster, Elementary Principal at GEMS Metropolitan Schools – Motown.