Ramadan Iftars and drop in sessions

Ramadan Kareem to everyone in our community observing the holy month.

Throughout Ramadan, you’re invited to join weekly Iftars on campus and attend drop‑in sessions offering support, guidance and a space to connect with others.

To help both those who are observing and those who want to better understand the month, the Chaplaincy has also created a short guide explaining the essentials of Ramadan, fasting and Eid.

What is Ramadan?

February 18 or 19  2026 would be the first day of fasting although, as Islamic days start at sunset, the month of Ramadan would actually begin on the evening of Tuesday 17 or Wednesday 18 February, provided the moon is sighted.

Around two billion Muslims around the world will start fasting, observing Ramadan and will be fasting during daylight hours, meaning they will abstain from eating, drinking or engaging in sexual relations for the duration of their fast. Young children, pregnant women, the old, the sick and travellers are examples of those who are exempt from fasting.

Aside from fasting, Muslims observing Ramadan also increase in spiritual devotional acts such as prayers, giving charity and strengthening family ties. Muslims are also encouraged to share their food with friends, family, neighbours, colleagues and to reach out to those who may be fasting alone, to share their Ramadan experiences.

Why fasting?

“O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you as it has been prescribed for those before you, so that you may attain Taqwa (God-conscious)” [Quran 2:183]

Fasting is one of the five pillars of Islam. A key objective of fasting is to increase in taqwa (closeness to / consciousness of God), and to engender a sense of gratitude, self-discipline and self-improvement, at both an individual and community level, which Muslims are encouraged to continue throughout the year.

At an individual level, fasting encourages us to feel an affinity with the poor across the world who have little or no food to eat. At a community level, the breaking of fast meal (Iftar) at sunset encourages families and local communities to share their meal together, whilst charity work in local communities typically increases during Ramadan.

Ramadan Guidance: Introduction 

Every Ramadan, around two billion Muslims fast around the world. Even if we are not fasting, it is important that we have a basic understanding of those who are, so that we can accommodate each other as best as possible.

The purpose of the guidance is to give a general understanding of the basics of Ramadan and fasting, and to serve as a timely reminder for those who do observe Ramadan. It suggests best practice to help students and staff to thrive spiritually, academically and professionally.

There is one Islam, but many Muslims, hence it is important to understand those that we cater for, by engaging with them and having open conversations to see how they can be best facilitated.

Studies show that students who are supported during Ramadan perform better in their studies, therefore we should do all we can to ensure flexibility, inclusion and compassion is shown to those who are observing the holy month of Ramadan.

I hope and pray that this guidance is a means of opening doors of mutual respect, tolerance, understanding and prosperity for all.

Ameen

Imam Mohammad Asad MBE, NPQSL, Muslim Chaplain

You can access the Ramadan guidance at: wlv.ac.uk/chaplaincy and from the library catalogue

Iftars 

Come together at sunset for connection and celebration, as we open our fast together with a meal, learn about Ramadan and make new friends. 

• Grant Iftar - Tuesday 24 February, 5pm arrival 
• Weekly Iftar  - Monday 2 March, 5.52pm 
• Weekly Iftar  - Monday 9 March, 6.05pm 
• Weekly Iftar  - Monday 16 March, 6.18pm 
• Daily Iftars - Water and light snacks will be available in the City Campus Students' Union 

All are welcome to attend - but please register in advance by completing this form.  Locations will be provided upon registration. 

Drop ins

Meet the Imam to ask any questions. Open to staff and students. 

• Monday 2 March, 1pm - 2pm
• Monday 9 March, 12pm - 1pm
• Monday 16 March, 1pm - 2pm 

Location: Student Journey Centre, Millennium City Building, Ground Floor. No booking required. 

To stay up-to-date with the latest events and announcements from the Chaplaincy, join the Canvas page here

Get in touch with the Chaplaincy at: Chaplaincy@wlv.ac.uk