UWTSD academic to host ‘Islamic Responses to COVID-19’ conference

University of Wales Trinity Saint David academic, Professor Gary Bunt, will host a special online conference next month (1 July 2021) titled 'Islamic Responses to COVID-19: Authority and Religiosity in #Muslim Communities & Digital Worlds.'

Over the last year, Professor Bunt has been undertaking research into online responses from Muslim communities associated with Covid-19 and will present his findings during this conference.  He will be joined by scholars from universities and institutions from across the globe including the Australian National University, George Mason University, Harvard University, Rice University and Ottawa University.  The event will also feature presentations by former UWTSD postgraduates.  

In his presentation, Professor Bunt will explore the impact of online Islamic pronouncements in the light of Covid-19, including how organisations and platforms respond in the light of continually shifting religious and media contexts. Professor Gary Bunt commented:

“The event will explore ethical, media, digital and religious responses to the COVID-19 situation in diverse Islamic contexts.

The unprecedented set of events associated with Covid-19 has brought a new focus on online religious activity in general and cyber Islamic environments in particular. This has included exploring how Muslim communities in the UK and elsewhere have utilised the internet on a number of levels, from religious activities to organising community responses. From streaming YouTube video from the empty Ka’aba in Mecca to delivery of Ramadan sermons through Instagram, many sectors of Muslim communities have embraced digital technologies, marking a new phase in online Islamic developments.

We can expect a lively programme, with opportunities for discussion with a wide range of international speakers. The focus is very much on shared experiences and perspectives across diverse international locations.”

Delegates will be welcomed by UWTSD’s Vice - Chancellor, Professor Medwin Hughes.  For further details and to book your place at the conference please click on the following link: Conference 2021 (virtuallyislamic.com)

Further Information

For more information please contact Arwel Lloyd, Principal PR and Communications Officer, on 07384 467076 / arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk