Two Nigerian universities, Bayero University, Kano (BUK) and Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto (UDUS), have adjusted their official working hours in observance of Ramadan while ensuring that academic and administrative activities continue.
In separate circulars released on March 3, 2025, both institutions announced shorter office hours to accommodate fasting students and staff. BUK stated that work hours will now end at 3:00 PM from Monday to Thursday and at 1:00 PM on Fridays. Similarly, UDUS set new working hours from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM on weekdays and 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM on Fridays.
The Vice-Chancellor of BUK, Prof. Sagir Adamu Abbas, emphasised that while the adjustments allow for religious observance, academic activities would not be disrupted. UDUS also reaffirmed that normal working hours would resume immediately after Ramadan.
These decisions contrast with policies in some northern states where primary and secondary schools have been completely shut down for Ramadan, a move that has sparked debate over its impact on education. Critics argue that while work-hour adjustments are reasonable, a full shutdown disrupts learning and affects teachers, especially those in private schools who may not receive salaries during the break.
Islamic scholars and education stakeholders have also pointed out that Muslim-majority countries such as Saudi Arabia and Egypt do not halt education during Ramadan, opting instead for reduced hours. The approach by BUK and UDUS aligns with this global standard, ensuring that religious observance and education go hand in hand.
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