This year, NAPLAN testing will overlap with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, raising concerns for Muslim students’ wellbeing who will be abstaining from food and drink during the testing period.

Annually, students across Australia in years 3, 5, 7 and 9 are expected to sit the National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) test.

In 2023 the NAPLAN testing dates were moved from May to March, presenting unique challenges for students within the Islamic community.

For Zahra Adura, 16, who underwent NAPLAN last year during Ramadan, she says having the test this time of year puts her at a disadvantage compared to her peers.

“I was really hard. I had moments where I would just space out and could not keep my concentration,” she said.

“This is a really important time for my family and my whole community… Trying to do the [NAPLAN] test during Ramadan put me under a lot of stress.”

Researcher in Islamic studies and founding director of the University of South Australia's Centre for Islamic Thought and Education, Professor Mohamad Abdalla AM, says educators can be more culturally responsive to better help students from diverse and multicultural backgrounds.

“Fasting during Ramadan, which involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset, can potentially impact students’ concentration, energy levels, and overall well-being," Professor Abdalla said.

“Given the rigorous nature of standardised testing like NAPLAN, where focus and cognitive function are paramount, fasting may exacerbate feelings of fatigue and reduce students' ability to perform at their best."

Professor Abdalla hopes schools and governments can offer flexibility in scheduling NAPLAN exams to accommodate for students observing Ramadan, such as providing alternative testing times or allowing students to take breaks during the test if needed.

“Schools can create a supportive and inclusive environment by raising awareness among staff and students about the significance of Ramadan and the potential challenges faced by fasting students.”

On the issue, the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) states scheduling options regarding the Ramadan and Eid period are authorised by the relevant local test administration authority.

The test administration authority can assist in ensuring schools with Muslim students schedule NAPLAN tests first thing in the morning to ensure fasting students’ energy levels are at their highest. 

ACARA advises parents and carers to discuss with their child’s school any concerns regarding their child observing Ramadan and participating in NAPLAN.