A Helsinki school has introduced a fasting park to support its Muslim students during Ramadan, which begins on February 17 this year. The facility has been well received by students, allowing them to refrain from eating with their peers while fasting. Bechir Mezzi and Altin Gubetini, two ninth graders, expressed their satisfaction with this arrangement, highlighting that it enables them to spend time in a designated area instead of the cafeteria during lunch breaks.

The fasting park is supervised by an adult school staff member and can accommodate up to 40 students at a time, as classes take turns in the cafeteria. Students engage in various activities while in the fasting park, such as reading, socializing, and enjoying each other's company. The school recognizes the importance of creating an inclusive environment accommodating the religious practices of its students, especially during the significant month of Ramadan, which culminates in the Eid al-Fitr celebration.

With around 160 upper-grade students at Itäkeskus Primary School, about half identify as Muslim and participate in fasting during the month. The introduction of the fasting park reflects a growing awareness and adaptation of schools in Finland to the diverse needs of their students, ensuring that students can observe their religious practices without feeling pressured to conform to the eating habits of their peers.