June 5, 2019, by International students

Life as a Muslim student in Nottingham

Muslims all around the world are celebrating  Eid-ul-Fitr, the end of Ramadan. In this blog post, Aisha, one of our International student Ambassadors, tells us more about what is happening in Nottingham during Ramadan, how Eid is celebrated, and life as a Muslim student at the University of Nottingham.

Aisha's son

Aisha’s son Abdullahi during Eid

What’s happening in Nottingham?

Ramadan in the University of Nottingham is fully packed with religious activities solely organized by the University’s Islamic society (ISOC). Free iftar meals are provided on campus while an open iftar is also held once within the Islamic month to invite the Nottingham community (Muslims and non-Muslims alike). The objective of open iftar is to share and acquaint non-Muslims about Islam, Ramadan and Iftar.   In the University’s prayer room at Portland building, taraweeh or tahajjud (special congregational prayers) are observed every night as prescribed during the holy month. Within Nottingham city, Tafseer (special Ramadan lectures and translation of the holy Quran) are held in selected mosques.  As is the tradition during Ramadan, families and friends are seen sharing meals, gifts and exchanging visits. In preparation for Eid, friends and families in Nottingham are seen shopping for groceries, food and clothing. This year, Eid prayers will be held at the Jubilee Sports Centre to accommodate the large number of Muslim faithful. Also organized by the ISOC is an Eid party which is usually full of merriment and is attended by family and friends.

Anything else about life as a Muslim student at Nottingham?

Life as a Muslim student in Nottingham has been a rewarding and fulfilling experience. The religious freedom and space provided by Nottingham University has enabled me to practice Islam and to bond with other Muslim students on campus. The multicultural nature of Nottingham city itself has made it possible to easily connect with a relatively large community of Muslims and to easily source Islamic essentials which provides great sense of belonging, seamless residency and quality living.

Eid Mubarak to all our students, colleagues and friends in Nottingham and around the world celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr.

Posted in International Student Ambassadors