Introduction
Ramadan is an important religious event for Muslims worldwide. During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn until dusk. However, for Muslim students at UBC, this can be challenging as they balance their academic commitments with their religious obligations. This research proposal aims to investigate the feasibility of implementing Ramadan meals accommodation for UBC students during the month of Ramadan.
Intended Audience
This research proposal is intended for the administration of the University of British Columbia (UBC), particularly those in charge of student affairs, dining services, and student wellness. It is also relevant for Muslim student organizations and other interested stakeholders who are concerned with promoting inclusivity and religious diversity on campus.
Statement of Problem
Muslim students at UBC who observe Ramadan face several challenges during the month-long fasting period. They may have difficulty concentrating in class or participating in extracurricular activities due to low energy levels from fasting. Moreover, finding appropriate food options during non-fasting hours can be a challenge, as not all dining facilities on campus provide halal options or foods suitable for those observing Ramadan. Additionally, students may feel isolated and excluded from campus life during this period, especially if there are no opportunities to connect with other Muslim students and celebrate Ramadan together.
Proposed Solution
The proposed solution is to provide Ramadan meals accommodation for UBC students during the month of Ramadan. This would involve offering halal meal options at UBC dining facilities during non-fasting hours and setting up communal iftars (breaking of the fast meals) for Muslim students to gather and celebrate together. This solution aims to promote inclusivity and diversity on campus by providing an environment that supports the religious needs of Muslim students.
Scope
The proposed research aims to explore the feasibility and potential impact of implementing Ramadan Meals Accommodation for UBC students. To accomplish this goal, the following areas of inquiry will be investigated:
- The current level of awareness and support for Ramadan among the UBC student community.
- The dietary needs and preferences of Muslim students during Ramadan, including the types of food and drinks they consume and the timing and frequency of meals.
- The challenges Muslim students face in accessing suitable meals during Ramadan, such as limited food options on campus and conflicting schedules with prayer times.
- The potential benefits and drawbacks of implementing Ramadan Meals Accommodation for UBC students, including the impact on student well-being, academic performance, and campus diversity and inclusivity.
- The most effective methods to communicate information about Ramadan Meals Accommodation to UBC students, including advertising and outreach strategies.
- The ethical considerations and potential barriers to implementing Ramadan Meals Accommodation, such as budget constraints, logistical challenges, and cultural sensitivity. The scope of the research will be limited to the UBC student population and will not extend to other campuses or communities. The research will be conducted through surveys, focus groups, and interviews with UBC students, as well as consultations with experts in Islamic studies and campus dining services.
Methods
The proposed research will be conducted through a mixed-methods approach that includes both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Qualitative data will be collected through focus groups with Muslim students at UBC to gather insights into their experiences observing Ramadan on campus, their needs and preferences for Ramadan meals accommodation, and their suggestions for implementation. Quantitative data will be collected through surveys distributed to the broader UBC student population to assess their attitudes towards Ramadan meals accommodation and their willingness to support such an initiative. Cost-benefit analysis and feasibility assessments will also be conducted.
My Qualifications
As a psychology major, I have conducted extensive research on inclusivity in POC and inter-generational immigrant trauma. This research proposal draws on my knowledge of diversity and inclusivity issues on university campuses, as well as my understanding of how religious identity intersects with mental health and well-being. Additionally, my experience with conducting mixed-methods research will be valuable in gathering comprehensive and diverse data.
Conclusion
Implementing Ramadan meals accommodation at UBC can promote inclusivity and religious diversity on campus and help support the needs of Muslim students during the month of Ramadan. This research proposal aims to assess the feasibility and potential benefits of such an initiative through a mixed-methods approach, including focus groups, surveys, cost-benefit analysis, and feasibility assessments.
References
Al-Hadramy, M., & Chen, W. (2017). Factors influencing international students’ food choices: A systematic review of literature. Journal of International Students, 7(4), 878-890.
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