With just over a week left of Ramadan, March has seen people from all communities and backgrounds gather across Bradford College campuses for special Iftar celebrations.
‘Iftar’ can be defined as the meal eaten by Muslims at sunset to break daily fasts throughout Ramadan, and is generally a social occasion shared with friends and family.
As this holy festival holds great significance to a large number of Bradford College students and staff, a selection of recent events have given both Muslims and non-Muslims the chance to gather and break fast together this month.
The Grand Iftar at The Grove
Last Thursday, around 40 guests came together at our in-house restaurant for the annual Bradford College ‘Grand Iftar’.
In partnership with MyLahore, those present were treated to an authentic buffet meal delivered by catering students and staff. Furkan Uddin (Head of Professional & Leisure Services), a key driving force behind the yearly event, commented: “This is the fourth year we’ve ran the hugely popular Grand Iftar. Working with employer partner MyLahore, catering students are able to embrace in a cultural experience by preparing South Asian cuisine for staff and members of the public.
“I am so proud to see how students have developed their skills this academic year, as well as their eagerness to learn something new.”
This was the first Grove Iftar since the restaurant’s reopening at the end of 2024, but was as much of a rousing success as previous editions.
Adult Skills Department Ramadan Café
In a conscious effort to tackle loneliness and hardship, the Bradford College Adult Skills Department has hosted a ‘Community Iftar’ every Tuesday and Thursday throughout the month of March. All food served has come from purely goodwill donations, with staff and students congregating to enjoy an evening meal, connect with new individuals, and learn more about different cultures to their own.
Speaking about this incredible collaboration between the ESOL, Tailored Learning, and English & Maths teams, Adrian Hutchinson (Head of Adult Skills Department) said: “The impact of the Ramadan Café is profound, with students eagerly anticipating Tuesday and Thursday to meet, share, and celebrate. People from all faiths and backgrounds are welcomed as we break fast and support those less fortunate. In this space, happiness and togetherness thrives.
“A couple of special mentions must go to Shamim Nizami (ESOL Lecturer) and Khalid from our College Catering Team. Both of their contributions have been truly amazing, without their hard work and dedication this initiative wouldn’t be possible.”
Bowling Back Lane Iftar
At our home of Automotive teaching on Bowling Back Lane, staff and students from all backgrounds recently assembled for a special Iftar meal in one of the campus’ training units.
The event gave all Motor Vehicle students and staff chance to share their understanding and experiences of fasting and Ramadan, with any left over food donated to ‘Homeless Not Hopeless‘. Turnout was very healthy and provided a unique chance to sit back, reflect, and foster understanding with one another.
Head of Engineering, Stephen Smith, said: “We are extremely proud to have hosted our first-ever Iftar at Bowling Back Lane campus, bringing together staff and students for a special evening of community, reflection, and celebration. A special thank you goes to Mareen Saghir, whose efforts were instrumental in making the evening happen.
“This Iftar was a beautiful moment of unity, with attendees breaking fast together, sharing conversations, and embracing the spirit of Ramadan. We look forward to making this an annual tradition!”
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