Islamic Society work with charity to support students during Ramadan

Dundee University Islamic Society is working in collaboration with the charity Change Makers – Yusuf Youth Initiative, to help deliver meals to anyone in the Dundee community that needs help breaking their fast during the month of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a very important time in the Islamic calendar, a month when Muslims all over the world are normally joined in community gatherings and congregational prayers.

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims won't eat or drink between dawn and sunset. This is called fasting.

Every year the Dundee Central Mosque offers free dinners for students and the local community to break their fasts, also known as Iftars.

This year Ramadan has been more challenging for many as the coronavirus outbreak means people cannot visit their local mosque or be with friends and family. Nevertheless, this hasn’t stopped the community from supporting each other. 

Students from the University are working with Change Makers to deliver free 10-day Iftar packs with the makings of a home cooked meal as well as hot food.

The project hopes to help build a community for students that aren’t local to Dundee and help get them through Ramadan.

Shabana Stanikzai, President of Dundee University Islamic Society, said,  “The blessed month of Ramadan is normally a time of large gatherings in the mosques and community meals.

“However, this year Ramadan is completely different as mosques are closed and social distancing measure are in place. Despite the unique circumstances this Ramadan, we are trying to stay positive.

“Working with Change Makers and Dundee Central Mosque has been a great way to network students together so they aren't alone this month and provide them with free food parcels throughout the month of Ramadan.”

Halima Kolo, Project Manager at Change Makers Yusuf Youth Initiative, said, “Fasting during Ramadan on a normal basis was always something the community looked forward to.

“This is because, without fail, most people will host Iftar parties, some men and women will break their fast in the mosque and you’ll always be around people throughout the day.

“However, this year, with the mosques being closed, everyone being at home – we’re having to meet our friends virtually. Some people do weekly Ramadan reflections at the mosque, however this year the atmosphere is different.

“The first day or two a lot of people really missed being at the mosque, bumping into the community elders who always shared word of wisdom with the youths, embracing each other at the mosques.”

Lamia Farha, a Business Masters student from Bangladesh is currently being supported by the Iftar delivery service, said, “My experience of Ramadan has been challenging this year as I’ve missed the company of my friends and family.

“Having the support with my Iftar meals has helped me stay strong both mentally and physically.

“When my friend told me about the support being offered I knew it was something that I would really benefit from and I am very grateful for it.” 

To receive support during Ramadan or to find out how you can help please get in contact with the Dundee University Islamic Society.