Students read Koran during Ramadan month at the Ar-Raudhatul Hasanah Islamic boarding school in Medan city, North Sumatra, Indonesia on March 12, 2024.
The resonating recitation of the Holy Quran echoed within the mosque of Ar-Raudhatul Hasanah Islamic Boarding School in Medan, North Sumatra province, Indonesia at the onset of Ramadan 1445 H. For the students, observing the fast during Ramadan away from their families didn't diminish their determination and spirit to worship and acquire knowledge.

This boarding school, which teaches both secular and religious subjects, accommodates students from various regions beyond North Sumatra such as Aceh, Jambi, and Riau.

Massive Quran recitations (Tadarus massal) are among the regular activities conducted at the boarding school. After congregational Zuhr prayers, students form circles facing each other, engaging in Quranic recitation for approximately 30 minutes. Each group of students is guided by their respective teachers (ustadz) at the location.

This tradition, upheld for years during each Ramadan month, not only aids in comprehending the contents of the Quran but also serves as a means to strengthen the bonds among the students.

To hone their language skills, students communicate daily in Arabic and English, which will prove invaluable upon completing their studies at Ar-Raudhatul Hasanah.

Despite longing for the comfort of home and face-to-face interactions with their parents and families, they persevere for a greater purpose: the pursuit of religious knowledge and success.