Ramadan is a time of profound reflection and community across the globe. For the SIS Group of Schools, especially for our community observing Ramadan, this season highlights the beautiful diversity of our international network. With campuses in Indonesia, Myanmar, India, and South Korea, our students experience this spiritual journey through different lenses of culture, climate, and geography.

Understanding these regional differences helps our global community stay connected and provides students with tailored strategies for health and academic success. Here is a look at the unique lifestyle patterns and time differences across our host countries.

Understanding the Global Clock: Time and Daylight Variations

One of the most striking differences for our international community is the duration of the fasting day. Because our schools span different latitudes and longitudes, the time from dawn to sunset varies across our specific campus locations.

Indonesia: The Vibrant Archipelago

In Indonesia, the atmosphere is deeply communal. The lifestyle here revolves around shared experiences.

Student Tip

Due to the high humidity in Indonesia, students should focus on mineral rich hydration during non-fasting hours. Drinking water with a pinch of sea salt or consuming coconut water in the evening can help replenish electrolytes lost through perspiration during the tropical school day.

India and Myanmar: Navigating Diverse Traditions

At ASIS Chennai, VSIS Mumbai, and SIS Myanmar, the lifestyle is defined by resilience and community support. The environment can be quite demanding during this season due to the transition into warmer months.

Student Tip

The heat in Chennai, Mumbai, and Yangon during this season can be intense. Students are encouraged to prioritize protein intake during their nighttime window to maintain muscle mass and cognitive focus. It is also beneficial to avoid heavy or overly fried foods to prevent sluggishness during study sessions.

South Korea: The Modern Urban Rhythm

At SIS Gwangju, fasting requires a different level of strategic planning due to the fast paced environment and the energetic pace of South Korean life.

Student Tip

For our students at SIS Gwangju, the challenge is often the busy academic schedule. We recommend carrying a small bottle of water and a few dates in your bag. This ensures you can break your fast immediately at sunset, even if you are in transit from school to home or an extracurricular activity.

Universal Wellness Tips for SIS Students

Choose Slow Release Energy

Focus on complex carbohydrates during your nighttime meals. Foods like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread release energy slowly into the bloodstream, which helps in preventing the “midday slump” during lessons.

Smart Hydration

Quantity is not as important as timing. Instead of drinking a large volume of water all at once, sip water consistently throughout the evening. This allows your cells to hydrate more effectively and prevents a heavy or bloated feeling.

Rest and Recess

At SIS, we support our students in their choices. During school breaks, choose low energy activities. The library or a quiet corner of the student lounge are excellent places to read or meditate, preserving your energy for your core academic subjects.

A United Global Community

The SIS Group of Schools is more than just an educational institution. By understanding how a student in Indonesia manages their day compared to a student in India, Myanmar, or South Korea, we foster a culture of empathy and international mindedness.

No matter where you are in the world, the principles of discipline, health, and community remain the same. We are proud of our students for their commitment and are here to support them every step of the way.

Find more resources and learn about our international curriculum.