By Christian George
As Ramadan approaches, schools in Dubai have been mandated to reduce study hours to give more time for Muslim faithfuls to key in to the fast.
A circular issued by the Knowledge and Human Development Authority has given an option to schools to begin at 7.45am and end at 12.45pm from Monday to Thursday and 7.45am to 11.45am on Friday.
Also, schools must provide a maximum of five hours of instruction time. On Fridays, schools must end instruction by maximum 12pm to accommodate Friday prayers, adding that students who are fasting are exempted from participating in PE classes.
However, parents have embraced the development, stating that it will afford the family more time to fast together.
Zeba Khan who is a mother of two primary school-going children says: “This the time when we try to inculcate the values of Islam in our children and tell them about Ramadan. But when children have long days, everything is a hurried affair.
“The holy month is the time to bond with family and friends. We are trying to teach our son about the importance of fasting as he is about to start the same. This way the time is celebrated with greater fervour. So, we thank the KHDA for be giving us this privilege. My cousin’s children fast, and it is especially easier on such children. Coming back home early during this time helps them to be less tired.”
According to zawya.com,
a Malay expat in the UAE says: “Shorter school hours coupled with two weeks of spring break that falls during Ramadan is perfect. My daughter is 14 years old. She has been fasting since she was six years old. So, with shorter school hours and holidays, she will have ample time to relax and revise her lessons for the O level exams. It surely would be less taxing for the children.”
During the holy month, amount of assigned homework and revision will be greatly reduced to so that teachers, students and parents can spend more time in prayer and with family.