What To Know
- As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, teachers and administrators in the UAE are carefully managing exam durations, spacing between papers, and supervision schedules to minimize fatigue for fasting students.
- “Our main focus is the happiness and satisfaction of the students, and we comply with UAE regulations regarding the organisation of Ramadan in our school.
- Internal school evaluations are done earlier in the day if needed, and the time and schedule for the evaluation are flexible.
As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, teachers and administrators in the UAE are carefully managing exam durations, spacing between papers, and supervision schedules to minimize fatigue for fasting students.
Some internal assessments and board exams may still overlap with the fasting period.
Ramadan Overlaps with Board Exams
Expected to begin around February 19, subject to moon sighting, Ramadan coincides with several key exams:
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CBSE board exams start February 17
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ISC/ICSE tests for Classes 12 and 10 are scheduled for February 12 and 17, respectively
Measures Taken by Schools
Ensuring Fairness and Reducing Fatigue
Deepika Thapar Singh, CEO-Principal of Credence High School, said:
“Exam durations, spacing between papers, and staff supervision are carefully managed to ensure fairness and minimise fatigue for fasting students. All Ramadan-specific timetable and assessment adjustments are communicated well in advance through official school channels, ensuring transparency, reducing stress, and helping families plan effectively during the holy month.”
Principals highlight that significant planning goes into balancing academic requirements with students’ wellbeing during fasting.
Avoiding Internal Exams During Ramadan
Michelle Thomas, Principal/CEO of GEMS Al Barsha National School, explained:
“We are mindful of student wellbeing and fairness during Ramadan. As the majority of students are fasting, internal exams are generally not scheduled during this period. This ensures that students are not disadvantaged and can observe Ramadan comfortably without the added pressure of assessments.”
The school also uses lighter assessment formats when tests cannot be avoided, enabling students to perform to the best of their abilities while respecting fasting commitments.
“The school sends detailed circulars or emails to parents, updates students during assemblies or tutor time, and posts information on official communication platforms. This transparency ensures that parents and students are aware of the amended schedules, exam plans, and wellbeing measures, helping to reduce stress during the month.”
Recorded Learning Support
Lisa Johnson, Principal of American Academy for Girls, said her school provides additional learning support during Ramadan:
“To support student wellbeing, we intentionally design our academic calendar so that major internal examinations do not fall during Ramadan. In addition, we provide recorded learning videos so students can review lessons at home after breaking their fast, when they are more comfortable and hydrated.”
Timely communication with parents ensures families can plan and students experience minimal stress.
Focus on Wellbeing in Ajman Schools
At Woodlem British School, Ajman, Principal Natalia Svetenok highlighted the school’s approach:
“Our main focus is the happiness and satisfaction of the students, and we comply with UAE regulations regarding the organisation of Ramadan in our school. We reduce the number of activities that require a lot of energy and slow down the learning process. Internal school evaluations are done earlier in the day if needed, and the time and schedule for the evaluation are flexible. Communication with parents ensures that everyone is informed and that they feel a sense of calm and respect during Ramadan.”
