The University of Leicester Students' Union Islamic Society hosted a ceremony to mark the opening of its prayer room, which has recently been extended to cope with an increased number of members.

Press Release

On Wednesday June 22 at 5.30pm, University of Leicester Vice-Chancellor, Professor Robert Burgess, will attend the ceremony to celebrate the expansion of the Brothers Prayer Room. Members of the Islamic Society and representatives from the University and the Students' Union will accompany him.

Situated on the mezzanine floor of the University's Charles Wilson Building, the recently enlarged prayer room forms the focus of the Islamic Society, which was recently voted the best Islamic Society in Britain by the Muslim Student Awards.

"In addition to developing Islamic knowledge and awareness within the student body, the society aims to preserve Islamic identity and tackle welfare issues that affect Islamic students in Leicester," says Ismail Patel, University of Leicester Students' Union Islamic Society Vice-President.

"The group also strives to put as much back into the community as possible through fundraising activities. The society recently raised £1600 for charitable organisations with a sponsored one-day fast during Ramadan."

Established about fifteen years ago, the society currently has about 400 Muslim and non-Muslim members, many of whom have joined over the last two years. As a result, it became necessary to expand the Brothers Prayer Room.

By working closely with Keith Julian, the University's Registrar and Secretary, and Richard Green, University Surveyor and Head of Facilities and Maintenance, the Islamic Society secured the space it required.

"The ceremony is not just about opening the new prayer room," continues Ismail. "It is about saying thank you to all the University staff, Students' Union sabbatical officers, porters and many other people for their help and support."

Chris Higham, University of Leicester Students' Union President adds,

"The Students' Union strives to provide all its societies and associations with the facilities and resources to carry out their activities effectively.

"The opening of the expanded Brothers Prayer Room is great news for the Islamic Society and is just one example of how the University and Students' Union are helping young people follow the extra-curricular activities of their choice."

With over 80 societies, the University of Leicester Students' Union has something to cater for all walks of student life. Through the development of all types of societies, associations and sports teams, it allows students to get more out of their time at University in Leicester.