Diversity in all its guises will be celebrated at Stellenbosch University's Celebrating Diversity from 30 September to 4 October.
The Matie campus is a kaleidoscope of people from different race groups, languages, genders and religions and the celebrations offer an opportunity to reflect on the co-existence of all groups. On campus the Islamic Society of Stellenbosch University (ISUS) represents Muslim students.
Adli Peck, chairperson of ISUS answers a few questions.
How many members does ISUS have?
ISUS has about 85 members, however we represent over 400 Muslim students.
How does ISUS try to interact with other groups/societies on campus?
We have a Basics Islam lecture series that runs throughout the year to inform non-Muslims about Islam and to try and address common misconceptions. We also engage with other faith-based societies and the faculty of theology in discussions of faith. Furthermore we assist with charity, justice and environmental awareness issues.
What are the most important religious days for Muslims?
We essentially have two main days of celebration (Eid) these are: Eid-ul-Fitr at the end of Ramadan, our month of fasting and the day of pilgrimage and sacrifice called Eid-ul-Adha. Muslims follow the lunar calendar and since the lunar year is 10 days shorter than the solar year, the days of celebration shift according to the solar calendar. This year Eid-ul-Fitr fell on the 9th August and Eid-ul-Adha will be coming up on the 15th October 2013.
To what extent does SU cater for the needs of Muslim students/staff?
Our students have only two essential needs: Implementation of five daily prayers and halal food dietary requirements.
Huge strides have been made this year to cater for Muslim students by providing a Muslim prayer room. There is only one mosque in Stellenbosch and it has been difficult for Muslims to get there to pray five times a day.
Our main concern remains the lack of halal food on campus and in Stellenbosch in general.We are working with the SRc and Student Affairs and will put forth proposals to the SU management about improving the halal food options available for students. Hopefully this will be implemented by the end of this year/beginning of next year.
What do you think are the biggest misconception about Muslims and the Islamic faith?
The biggest misconception is with regards to our beliefs and practices. Many students are surprised to learn that we believe in God and that Allah is the Arabic name of God. Even more surprising is the fact that we believe in all of the messengers of God, especially Jesus (peace be upon Him).
The portrayal of Muslims in the media as terrorists and oppressors of women has left a barrier of ignorance regarding our fellow students' perception of what Islam represents. Hence the next topic on our Basics Islam series is Women in Islam.
How do you feel about Diversity Week?
I think this is an excellent initiative and I, our members and our fellow Muslim students are looking forward to engage in the celebrations.
At the opening of the prayer room in March, the Rector, Prof Russel Botman said: "We want to grow at Stellenbosch University and understand that we're all here for a purpose. I want the Muslim community to feel that they're roleplayers at this University. May everyone using this facility enjoy peace, secure in the knowledge that they are welcome here. And may we all engage with each other in a spirit of tolerance."
- The ISUS website is www.isus.co.za.
- Read about Maties Diversity Celebration by clicking here to go to our webpage where you will also find the programme.
- Follow us on Twitter @MatiesDiversity.
- Join our Facebook page at Stellenbosch University here.
