ramadan 2026: Universities and communities prepare for a month of fasting, prayer and reflection
Ramadan, the Islamic month of fasting, prayer and communal reflection, is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (ET) or Wednesday, February 18, 2026 (ET), depending on the moon sighting. The period is observed by Muslims worldwide, who refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours and break their fast at sunset with an evening meal known as iftar. Colleagues and students observing the month may face additional practical challenges while continuing academic and professional responsibilities.
Timing, observance and what to expect on campus
The start of Ramadan remains dependent on local moon sighting practices, so communities should be prepared for either evening start date listed above (ET). Fasting takes place from dawn to sunset; the exact hours will vary by location and change slightly each day. Participants typically greet one another with expressions such as 'Ramadan Mubarak' or 'Ramadan Kareem'—phrases that convey wishes for a blessed or generous month.
On campuses, the month can bring practical adjustments. People observing the fast may take short prayer breaks during the day and will need time to prepare for iftar at sunset. Expect quieter cafés and canteens during daylight hours and increased activity around sunset when people break their fast. Scheduling considerations around exams, meetings and lab work are important: some observers may prefer earlier or later meeting times, and those coordinating assessments should remain mindful of fasting-related fatigue or altered daily rhythms.
Support measures, accommodations and wellbeing
Institutions are encouraging understanding and flexibility to help students and staff balance their commitments with religious observance. Practical steps that can be taken include allowing brief prayer breaks, offering flexible meeting slots, and providing quiet spaces for prayer or reflection. Where possible, scheduling significant exams and deadlines with sensitivity to fasting hours is recommended to reduce strain.
Health and wellbeing are central during Ramadan. Those observing the fast are advised to maintain hydration and nutrition during non-fasting hours, get adequate rest and plan activity levels to manage energy across the day. Managers and academic staff can help by checking in with fasting colleagues and students, offering reasonable adjustments where needed, and encouraging use of wellbeing services if fatigue or stress becomes a concern.
Communal aspects are also important. Iftar gatherings—shared meals after sunset—offer social support and a chance to maintain community ties. Universities and student groups often organise iftar events and quiet prayer facilities; these can help reduce isolation for those away from family or home communities during the month.
Voices from the community
A range of staff reflections underscores the month’s personal and communal significance. One lecturer described Ramadan as a month-long 'spiritual retreat' woven between campus, home and local mosques, highlighting both the inward focus of prayer and reflection and the outward pull of community obligations. Messages across campuses have extended warm wishes for peace, wellbeing and success to those observing the month, stressing that small acts of consideration and flexibility reflect shared values of respect and support.
As Ramadan 2026 approaches, students, staff and campus services are being urged to communicate openly about needs and adjustments. Simple courtesies—such as scheduling awareness, respect for prayer time and invitations to communal iftar—can make a meaningful difference for those observing the holy month while maintaining the rhythm of academic life.
