Holding fast to a faith

Muslims in the UK observe Ramadan as Muslims around the world do. One of the principal duties of Muslims during Ramadan, which is a time for atonement, is fasting. Many of the Muslim schoolchildren in the UK will fast and pray in the 1996 Ramadan, which begins in late January, for the first time. Teachers can make this period easier for them mainly by respecting their practices, such as not drinking water or eating food from dawn to sunset. Music during school assemblies can also be stopped. A prayer room where they can congregate during lunchtime would also be appreciated. Since fasting pupils feel tired, physical education lessons can be lightened.