ramadan mubarak: Campus prepares guidance and support as Ramadan 2026 approaches
The holy month of Ramadan is expected to begin on the evening of Tuesday, February 17, 2026 ET or Wednesday, February 18, 2026 ET, depending on moon sighting. As fasting, prayer and community observances commence, the university community is sharing messages of support, practical guidance and a reminder to extend consideration to colleagues and students taking part in the month-long fast.
When Ramadan begins and what to expect
Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide as a period of daytime fasting, intensified prayer, reflection and charity. Many who observe will abstain from food and drink during daylight hours and break their fast at sunset with iftar. Greetings such as ‘Ramadan Mubarak’ or ‘Ramadan Kareem’ — meaning blessed or generous Ramadan — are commonly exchanged throughout the month.
Because the start of Ramadan depends on the lunar calendar, the community is asked to be flexible around the projected dates. Students and staff observing the fast may request short breaks for prayer, adjustments to timetables for religious observance, or flexibility with meeting and assessment timings where practicable.
Support for staff and students during the month
Leaders and colleagues are encouraging an environment of mutual respect and accommodation. Many will balance academic and professional responsibilities with fasting and prayer; simple adjustments such as considerate scheduling, understanding when someone needs a short prayer break, and awareness of energy levels can make a tangible difference.
One staff member reflected on the personal meaning of the month: “Welcome to the Blessed Month of Ramadan! I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt well wishes to all colleagues and students observing this sacred time. Ramadan Mubarak to you and your loved ones. For Muslims, Ramadan is a sacred time of fasting, prayer, reflection, and charity. It nurtures self-discipline, compassion, gratitude, and spiritual renewal, encouraging us to deepen our concern for those in need and for the Muslim to be more God conscious. Across our campuses, many will be fasting while continuing their academic and professional responsibilities. You may notice adjustments to schedules or prayer breaks; your understanding and kindness during this month are deeply appreciated and reflect our shared values of respect and support. I pray that this month brings peace, wellbeing, and success to all, and strengthens the spirit of unity and compassion within our university community. ”
That reflection, offered by a lecturer who describes Ramadan as a month-long spiritual retreat, captures how observance is often woven between campus commitments, home life and time at local places of worship. The message asks for patience and a spirit of cooperation as routines shift.
Practical guidance and fostering community spirit
Practical measures can help the campus remain inclusive and functional. Simple steps include offering flexible meeting times, providing quiet spaces for prayer, scheduling assessments with awareness of fasting schedules where feasible, and making common areas welcoming to those breaking fast in the evening.
Students and staff are encouraged to communicate needs in advance when possible and to be mindful of colleagues juggling fasting with deadlines or teaching duties. Acts of support — from shared iftar gatherings to checking in on the wellbeing of fasting colleagues — are highlighted as ways to strengthen communal bonds during the month.
As the community observes the start of Ramadan, the central message is one of respect and solidarity: extend kindness, accommodate reasonable adjustments, and offer goodwill to those observing. Ramadan Mubarak to everyone marking this important time.
