The Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) has announced that private schools in Dubai will have reduced working hours of five hours during the holy month of Ramadan. Schools have been directed not to hold classes for longer than the stipulated time during the month of fasting. The circular sent to all schools in the emirate gave two options to the schools to choose from. Schools that begin at 7.45am will end at 12.45pm from Monday to Thursday and 7.45am to 11.45am on Friday. Institutions that start school at 8am will end at 1pm from Monday to Thursday, and at 11.45am on Friday. This move has been welcomed by school heads and parents.
The KHDA circular states that schools must provide a maximum of five hours of instruction time during Ramadan. The students who are fasting are exempt from participating in PE classes. Schools have been advised to limit the amount of assigned homework and revision. They are also advised to consider fasting students while planning field trips during Ramadan.
Some schools have been conducting a survey about their preferred timing for Ramadan. Lalitha Suresh, principal at GEMS Our Own Indian School, Dubai says that they will hold consultations with parents to determine the actual timings and submit it to the KHDA. Wayne Howsen, principal, The Aquila School says that they consulted their community before deciding the start and end times of the school day.
Parents have welcomed this decision as it allows them to spend more time worshipping and spending quality time with their family. A Malay expat in the UAE said that shorter school hours coupled with two weeks of spring break that falls during Ramadan is perfect for his 14-year-old daughter who has been fasting since she was six years old. Zeba Khan, a mother of two primary school-going children, said that the holy month is the time to bond with family and friends. Coming back home early during this time helps children to be less tired and it is especially easier for children who fast.
Ramadan is a holy month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It is a time when Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours. The primary purpose of fasting is to gain a better understanding of God’s blessings and to become closer to Him. It is also a time to focus on prayer, charity, and helping others.
The KHDA’s decision to reduce school timings during Ramadan reflects the importance of this month to Muslims. The move has been appreciated by parents and school heads, as it allows families to spend more time together and to observe the holy month of Ramadan. This decision will also benefit students who fast, as they will have more time to rest and relax after school. It is a wise decision that acknowledges the significance of Ramadan in the UAE and shows respect for the traditions and customs of the Muslim community.
The KHDA’s decision to reduce school timings during Ramadan has been welcomed by parents and school heads. This move reflects the importance of the holy month to Muslims and allows families to spend more time together. It also benefits students who fast, as they will have more time to rest and relax after school. This is a wise decision that shows respect for the traditions and customs of the Muslim community in the UAE. Ramadan is a time to reflect, pray, and help others. The KHDA’s decision will make it easier for students to do all of these things, while also continuing their education.
