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Islam Awareness Week at UEL helps raise awareness and break down stereotypes

Thursday 26 April 2007

The Islamic Society of the University of East London Students’ Union held a successful exhibition and event on the theme of understanding Islam at UEL’s Docklands campus.

Islam Awareness Week, from 16 to 20 April, provided opportunities for students and visitors to learn about the meaning of Islam and helped to break down stereotypes. The event attracted several hundred people from all different races and religions. UEL has students from 120 countries worldwide and is proud of its multicultural and community.

Islam has two meanings, submission to God (Allah) and Peace. Muslims greet each other by wishing one another peace (Sala’am). For all Muslims it is not only a religion but also a way of life. Muslims practice the five basics of Islam which are: the declaration of faith, fasting, five daily prayers, pilgrimage to Makkah and the giving of charity (Zakat).

Islam greatly encourages for Muslims to seek knowledge and be open minded. To discover, explore and wonder at the wonders of god's creations. Islam has greatly contributed to health, mathematics, human rights and science.

First year Law student Maidah Rao, who volunteered at the event, said: "I've volunteered my time to inform the UEL students about Islam as a religion that is something that is positive. As there are a lot of negative representations about Islam within the media"

Noorie Begum first year Law student also said: "I have volunteered my time so that the students can get to know the basics of Islam."

Nilufa Begum (20), of Tennyson Rd, Stratford, a second-year media student, said: “As a Muslim studying at the University of East London, it is great to see so many multicultural students and to learn from each other about one another's culture and religion.

“This university is generally supportive and understanding of the needs of practising Muslim students, for example by providing new prayer rooms and by recognising Ramadan and other special dates in the Islamic calendar.”

Sarah Mitchell who is studying Third World Development combined with NGO management said:" The event is an excellent opportunity for them to inform people about Islam, and I think the posters are really attractive and informative."

Second year student Sediqa Bahmanpour who is studying English Literature combined with Media Studies said: "I've seen the event on the way to my lectures and I think it's a great idea to have it somewhere that everyone can see it. I think it's a good start to have an event like this and for students to get a positive perspective about Islam."

Ends/.

For details and pictures contact Patrick Wilson: 020 8223 2061 or 07951 797 975

Notes to Editors

The University of East London (UEL) is a global learning community with over 28,000 students from over 120 countries world-wide. Our vision is to achieve recognition, both nationally and internationally, as a successful and inclusive regional university proud of its diversity, committed to new modes of learning which focus on students and enhance their employability, and renowned for our contribution to social, cultural and economic development, especially through our research and scholarship. We have a strong track-record in widening participation and working with industry.

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