A celebration of community, connection, and learning: EEE hosts its first Iftar

Electrical and Electronic Engineering has hosted a special Iftar event, bringing the community together to celebrate and learn about Ramadan.

We wanted to create a space where people could learn about why we fast, experience the community aspect of it, and even try fasting themselves if they wanted.” Tayyab Mohammed EEE student organiser

Iftar is the meal eaten after sunset during the holy month, marking the end of a day of fasting for Muslims worldwide. More than 60 attendees, including students and staff, Muslims and non-Muslims, gathered to experience this meaningful tradition together. The meal took place around 6.15pm, following prayers for those observing Ramadan.

A student-led initiative, the EEE Iftar was designed to be both welcoming and educational. The event was made possible by the dedicated efforts of organisers Tayyab Mohammed, Aisha Shah and Hana Khalil, with support from Emma Rainbow from our EEE Education Team.

Our students shared their motivation for hosting the event, and their personal highlights:

"The whole idea was to keep it as open and inclusive as possible — no sign-ups, no entry fees, just a space where anyone could join in. Seeing staff and students from different backgrounds all coming together was really special.” Ali Ellabban

“Ramadan is one of those times when people suddenly remember Islam - but often with a lot of misconceptions. The idea of fasting can seem extreme to those unfamiliar with it. We wanted to create a space where people could learn about why we fast, experience the community aspect of it, and even try fasting themselves if they wanted. It was about education as much as celebration, and it was great to see people open to understanding more.” Tayyab Mohammed.

“If I had to pick, I’d say two highlights: the way people engaged with the event, asking questions and really immersing themselves in it — and, of course, the biryani running out almost instantly!” Hana Khalil

Third-year student Ali Ellabban gave an engaging speech, explaining how fasting is looked forward to as an expression of faith, and the significance of Ramadan as a month of reflection and spiritual growth, charity and community.

Of course, no Iftar would be complete without a delicious meal — a shoutout to Tayyab for organising, with the biryani proving to be a clear favourite.

    (Photographs: Hana Khalil)

Spencer Cockerell, co-ordinator of DICE (EEE's Diversity, Inclusion, Culture and Equity Committee) shared his appreciation: “As a non-Muslim, I really valued the opportunity to learn more about Ramadan and why fasting is of such importance, and Ali’s excellent introduction explained it so well, and in such an inclusive way. Congratulations and thanks to the whole student team who did such a great job organising, and in managing that long queue of hungry people!”

"Every step that builds a stronger sense of community is a good one, and I’m so pleased that our department can help this happen. I’m looking forward to attending many more grassroots community events." Professor Tim Green Head of Department

Head of Department Professor Tim Green reflected on the success of the event: “It was lovely to be in a room filled with chattering, happy people, and to hear Ali’s eloquent insights. Every step that builds a stronger sense of community is a good one, and I’m so pleased that our department can help this happen. I’m looking forward to attending many more grassroots community events like this throughout the calendar.”

Tayyab said how having the support of the Department for the Iftar meal "made Muslim students feel really welcomed and valued. It showed that our community is recognised and appreciated.”

The student organisers now hope to make this a yearly tradition, Ali said: “We’d love to make this an annual event and keep growing it. The response was so positive, and it was such a special evening, so we’re definitely keen to do it again next year.”

Congratulations from all of us in the Department on a wonderful community event.