Students to raise Islam awareness

Students hope to establish greater understanding of the Koran

Students at Aberdeen universities have launched a Muslim awareness week to try and develop understanding between religions.

It has been arranged after the controversy caused by cartoons depicting the Prophet Muhammad.

Events include showing documentaries, as well as activities and discussions.

Aberdeen University Muslim Students' Association (Aumsa) said: "It will allow the public to ask questions and find answers for themselves."

The role of Islam and its wider role in society are the focus of the events.

This week is about education and raising awareness of what Islam actually teaches Sherif Hampton Vice president of Aumsa

Students from Aumsa and the Robert Gordon University Islamic Society have organised the week.

The aim is informing the public about the religion to try to increase tolerance and understanding.

Vice president of Aumsa, Sherif Hampton, said: "Islam is a religion of peace and tranquillity.

"What we see is a number of issues involving Islam, some where the name of Islam has been used but its teachings not followed, but also confusion as to what our teachings are and why we hold such high reverence to certain beliefs.

"This week is about education and raising awareness of what Islam actually teaches.

"Most importantly, it will allow the public to ask questions and find answers for themselves."

During the week former journalist Yvonne Ridley - who converted to Islam after being captured by the Taliban in 2001 - will deliver a lecture on her time in captivity through to her transition.