Children & Ramadan
Wifaqul Ulama Public Affairs (Department)
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh (Peace, Blessings & Mercy of Allah be upon You).
This statement is being issued on the 21st of May 2018 and supersedes all previous statements on the subject.
We are disappointed in the Ramadan guidance issued by The Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL) and believe that the ASCL has overstepped its remit by offering religious advice. ASCL is meant to be a secular organisation but they have overstepped by issuing a “Fatwa” which is neither their place nor within their purview.
The (Muslims) who have endorsed this “Fatwa” from ASCL should stay within their area of expertise and we advise them to read the evidence (in its entirety) and consider pulling their endorsement. Your endorsement has caused confusion amongst Muslims that they should not fast during Ramadan. Studies have demonstrated that fasting does not significantly influence mood and fatigue.
We advise students to make a timetable balancing revision, rest and prayers and not to unnecessarily exert themselves.
Read the full response here: