A PAIR of Solihull schools welcomed families and members of the community to Iftar events.
Cockshut Hill School in Yardley and Ninestiles, an Academy in Acocks Green celebrated the start of Ramadan with refreshments including biryani, chaat, samosas, pakoras, kebabs and cakes – with many items being donated by local businesses and community members.
In the tradition of Iftar, there was no obligation of payment, although the gatherings were asked to give in the form of Sadaqah – a charitable act.
Cockshut Hill learners opened their event, which was attended by Yardley MP Jess Phillips, with a Quran recitation, and speeches in a variety of languages such as Urdu, English, Arabic and Kurdish about the status of women in Islam.
At Ninestiles there was a range of stalls offering treats, Islamic books and clothing as there was a chance to try on traditional dress and headwear.
All monies raised at the events were donated to the Turkey and Syria Earthquake appeal.
Speaking ahead of Iftar Zaffreen Kosir, trust secondary Urdu and home languages coordinator, head of department modern foreign languages and teacher of Urdu at Cockshut Hill School, said: “I am so proud to be a part of a school that supports and values different cultures within its community.
“Iftar is very important and a way of giving back to our community.
“I’m glad that the learners will be able to share this with staff members, alumni and other members of our community.
“Everyone has put so much effort into making the event something special, and we plan to do more like this in the future, to support the community in any way we can.”
