Ramadan is underway: discover our campus facilities and learn more about this holy month
The Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which involves fasting from dawn to sunset for about 30 days, is currently underway.
Held on the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Ramadan lasts for 29 or 30 days, depending on the moon cycle. This year, Ramadan will end on the evening of Friday 21 April (times can differ slightly from place to place based on moon sightings).
With over 600,000 Muslims living in Australia, many in our University community will be observing Ramadan. We want Deakin to be a welcoming space for everybody – here’s how you can practise your faith while you’re on campus or learn more about this important time.
Use a food-free space in the library
From Wednesday 22 March to Thursday 20 April, certain areas of each campus library will be food-free zones. Everyone is welcome to use these spaces (just leave your food and drink at home!) – look out for signs and book ahead if needed. Find out more.
Visit a prayer room
Prayer rooms are available to all students, regardless of religious belief. They offer a quiet and peaceful environment for you to take time for personal reflection or practise your faith.
When visiting Muslim prayer rooms, we ask that you please:
- bring your own prayer mat, head scarf and copy of the Quran
- follow the marked spacing allocations and check in on arrival
- observe social distancing requirements when using the ablution facilities.
Please note that our prayer rooms will not be available for use during the Easter University closure period (Friday 7 to Tuesday 11 April).
You can also contact our multifaith chaplains for a confidential chat or support.
Discover what Ramadan means to Deakin students
Students Sana Fazal and Muhammad Zahid, who are also the president and secretary of the Deakin University Islamic Society (DUIS), join the Respect. Belong. Thrive podcast series to discuss the importance of Ramadan and share some DUIS events happening throughout the month.
Find out more about the Deakin University Islamic Society
The DUIS is here to help our Muslim community fulfil their social and religious needs. We also provide general awareness of the Islamic faith to the public, as well as year-round events open to all, including Islamic lectures, halaqas, Ramadan Iftars and Eid festivities.
Find out more about the DUIS in Geelong and Burwood.
Wish someone ‘Happy Ramadan’
Even if you’re not observing Ramadan, you’re welcome to use the following greetings (just think of them as festive greetings like ‘Merry Christmas’ or ‘Happy Hanukkah’):
- ‘Happy Ramadan’ or ‘Happy Eid’.
- ‘Ramadan Mubarak’, which means ‘Have a blessed Ramadan’.
- ‘Ramadan Kareem’, which means ‘Have a generous Ramadan’.