Ramadan: What You Should Know
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is considered one of the holiest periods in Islam because it commemorates the first revelation of the Qur’an, the central sacred book of Islam that Muslims believe to be the word of God, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, whom they regard as the final messenger of God. It marks a month of fasting, spiritual reflection, and community connection for Muslims around the world. In 2026, Ramadan is expected to begin on February 17 or 18, since the start of the month depends on the sighting of the new crescent moon, which can vary by location and atmospheric conditions. The month lasts for 29 or 30 days and concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset as an act of worship and self-discipline, using this period to deepen their faith, practice compassion, and strengthen their sense of social and ethical responsibility.
How People Observe Ramadan
Muslims observe Ramadan through daily fasting, increased prayer, acts of charity, and moments of intentional reflection. The day begins before sunrise with suhoor, a pre dawn meal, followed by fasting throughout the day. Evenings end with iftar, when the fast is broken. Muslims participate in nightly prayers known as taraweeh, which strengthen spiritual focus during the month.
Ramadan is not only a physical practice but also an opportunity for Muslims to cultivate patience, compassion, and gratitude. The month encourages mindfulness in speech and behavior.
How to Support Graduate Students Observing Ramadan
Students who are fasting may experience lower energy or increased fatigue, especially during the first week of Ramadan as they adjust to a new routine.
Offering some flexibility in participation can be helpful, as students fasting for Ramadan may prefer to listen rather than actively contribute during these initial days.
Students observing Ramadan may take short breaks for prayer in the afternoon or evening, and they may also need a few minutes at sunset for iftar. Making space for these brief pauses not only supports their continued engagement but also helps them return to class or the lab feeling more centered and mindful.
Giving some flexibility with deadlines, when appropriate, may also help, as Ramadan often includes additional evening commitments that may increase students’ workload pressures.
Additionally, for those planning programming, shared meals, or social gatherings, scheduling events after sunset and offering halal-friendly food options can help graduate students observing Ramadan participate more fully. Being mindful of dietary needs (Halal food) not only during Ramadan but at all communal events, is a meaningful way to foster inclusion and show support for religious and cultural traditions.
Why Knowing About Ramadan Matters
Understanding Ramadan is part of building a globally aware, culturally competent academic community. Graduate programs bring together students from many backgrounds, and recognizing religious observances help strengthen empathy, respect, and inclusion. Awareness of Ramadan allows peers, faculty, and staff to better support one another, reduce misunderstanding, and create learning environments where all students feel valued. In a globalized university setting, cultural literacy is not just beneficial, it is essential for meaningful community engagement and student success.
