Dubai - Khaleej Times spoke to an expert in the field of medicine to provide guidelines on how students
Published: Sun 13 May 2018, 5:36 PM
Eight-year-old Mohammad Rayyan Sohail from Dubai is studying hard to keep himself fully prepared for the forthcoming final exams. Like scores of other students of the UAE, his exams are scheduled to coincide with the month of Ramadan this year.
Rayyan is keeping himself fully geared up for his exams so that he can fulfill his religious duty as well as gain success in his academics.
He is a grade 3 student and has been fasting for the past two years. "I will fast this year also. I have been fasting before as well," Rayyan told Khaleej Times.
Thousands of schools, colleges and university students in the UAE will appear for their final exams during the Ramadan. It is going to be a challenge for the parents as well as students.
Rayyan's exams are scheduled to start from June 7 and will end towards June 22. Ramadan in the UAE is expected to start from May 27 amid summer when temperatures hover around 45-48 degrees Celsius.
"It is a little challenging to fast during exams but it is an obligation on every Muslim," said Mariam, a class 9 student.
"I have planned to study during the night till suhoor and sleep after eating. That shall help hopefully."
University student Nufail says he feels happier to sit for the final exams of his final semester during Ramadan.
"This semester is very crucial for my career. In this blessed month of Ramadan, I am sure to succeed with remarkable marks."
He says that he is determined to fast in every situation as he writes one of the most important exams of his life.
While parents are hoping to provide all support to their children, they are also apprehensive about the way their children shall manage exams with fasting.
"Ramadan is falling in core summer months. There are chances of getting dehydrated which affects health and concentration also. Parents have to be really proactive in paying attention to what their children are eating," said Nazima, Dubai-based mother of two school-going children.
She said she will provide full support to her sons so that they fulfill their religious obligation while they succeed in their exams.
"The good thing is that such situations prepare children for tough times. It helps them learn some important lessons of life. I am sure all children will pass through this blessed month," said Saika, a mother of two.
Rayyan's mother, Ayesha, adds that fasting during long days and disturbed sleeping pattern has to be dealt with so that children feel strong.
"Rayyan will fast even if I ask him not to. I will be with him for all the support. I am very happy he is prepared for it," adds Ayesha.
What do experts say?
Khaleej Times spoke to an expert in the field of medicine to provide guidelines on how students can deal with studies while fasting. Dr Jalil Ahmed Alvi, Specialist Paediatrics Shaikh Khalifa Hospital, Umm al Quwain, provided following tips for students:
1: Stay hydrated as much possible. It affects the overall performance of the body.
2: Eat healthy. Avoid food that makes you thirsty.
3: Try to study after breaking the fast and sleep during the day.
4: Stay indoors and avoid going out in the sun as it can cause dehydration.
5: Avoid too much physical activity.