No Islamic Basis for Closing Schools During Ramadan – Education Minister

The Minister of State for Education, Suwaiba Ahmad, has urged the governments of Bauchi, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kano states to reconsider their decision to close public schools during Ramadan, arguing that no Muslim-majority nation follows such a practice.  

Speaking on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm, Ahmad emphasized that even in countries where Islam is the dominant religion, schools remain open during the fasting period.

“In each state, the education system is under the state level, and they have the right to make decisions. However, we can only engage them and present our position on the matter,” she said.

Ahmad stressed that Islamic teachings do not require schools to be shut down because of fasting.

“Even in countries recognized as Muslim nations, like Saudi Arabia, schools remain open during Ramadan. There is nowhere it is written that you must shut down schools because of fasting,” she stated.

Referencing Islamic history, the minister pointed out that major activities, including warfare, took place during Ramadan in the time of the Prophet Muhammad (S.A.W).

“The Prophet (S.A.W) even went to war during Ramadan, so it is not something that should hinder education,” she noted.

She expressed concern over the academic time lost due to the closures and revealed that the Federal Ministry of Education is engaging with the affected states to address the issue.

“What about the period that will be lost? This is something we are looking into as we continue discussions with the state governments,” she said.

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