Schools in Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh change timings for Ramadan

Schools in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh have changed their school timings in view of the holy month of Ramadan, allowing Urdu and other minority language students to observe the day without having to sacrifice their academic performance.

The Karnataka Directorate of Urdu and Other Minority Language Schools has issued a circular modifying the Ramadan hours for Urdu primary and high schools from 8:00 am to 12:45 pm. This decision is consistent with prior guidelines and seeks to guarantee that students can observe the holy month without disrupting their studies. The circular also directed schools to take the required procedures in this regard.

A similar change in school timings for Urdu-medium schools has also been announced by the Andhra Pradesh School Education Department.

To accommodate the Ramadan period, schools will open from 8:00 am to 1:30 pm from March 12 to April 10 this year. This decision comes in response to a representation by the Minority Teachers Association, which urged authorities to consider the requirements of children during this religious observance. Throughout the state, the directive applies to Urdu medium primary, upper primary, and high schools, as well as parallel sections and the District Institute of Education and Training (DIET).

According to the circular, the decision was made after the Minority Teachers Association requested that the timings be changed to coincide with Ramadan. The notice went on to say that the scheduling changes would not affect Secondary School Certificate (SSC) Public Examinations or other tests.

These improvements are intended to make religious observances more convenient for students while minimising disruption to their academic schedules. It demonstrates educational authorities’ commitment to supporting students from varied backgrounds and protecting their ability to practise their faith while studying.

Muslims around the world observe Ramadan, a holy month of fasting that falls on the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. The holy month begins on the day determined by Saudi Arabia’s moon-seeing commission

This year, the Ramadan crescent moon was observed in Saudi Arabia on March 10 evening, prompting Muslims to begin fasting on Monday, March 11. Meanwhile, in India, the moon was visible on March 11, therefore the fast began today, March 12.

One of the most significant annual observances for the Muslim community is the 29–30 day Ramadan period. Every member of the faith fasts prays, engages in charitable giving back to the community, and engages in introspection during this time.

Source: News18