Shaikh Rafat Njam
Last week at the Understanding Ramadan for non-Muslims presentation, Shaikh Rafat Najm, volunteer chaplain with the Unitec Multi-faith Chaplaincy team, provided attendees with an understanding of the Islam religion, his perspectives and the reasons behind Ramadan.
With Ramadan now underway, when Muslim students fast through the daylight hours, the information was particularly helpful for academic staff teaching Muslim students. The workshop, attended by staff and students, provided a valuable insight to a religion that has been brought to the attention of many of us following the tragic events in Christchurch.
At the end of the session Shaikh Najm was presented with the banners and condolence books signed by Unitec staff and students for the Muslim community in Christchurch.
Shaikh Njam and Glenn, holding the signed banner that will be delivered to Christchurch.
Glenn Mckay and Shaikh Njam share a hongi and handshake
Glen Mckay, Te Tumu and Executive Director – Student Success, blessed the banners and condolence books before presenting them to Shaikh Najm. Glenn also led the group in prayer and talked about the need to continue to support the community, and never forget the lives that were lost.
Shaikh Najm will take the banners and books, which are filled with messages of solidarity and aroha, with him on his upcoming trip to Christchurch where he is supporting those affected by the tragedy. He accepted the words of support with gratitude, on behalf of the Muslim community.
Merran signing the banner for Christchurch
Kia kaha, kia maia, kia manawanui.
Good to know about this, and also to see the olive tree doing well in the memorial garden. Some students have said they’ve appreciated people’s acknowledgement of the sadness, grief and anger that the tragic events have elicited, and grateful that people have paid attention to and talked with them about their feelings and challenges.
Well done Unitec.