Islamic Boarding School in the Trajectory of Indonesian History: Origins, Characteristics, and Policy Dynamics

Abstract

Islamic boarding school as a local genius has a long history before it was finally integrated into the Indonesian national education system. This paper examines the existence, characteristics, and dynamics of government policies towards Islamic boarding schools. This research uses a historical qualitative approach by relying on a literature review for data sources (library research) and analyzed by the content analysis method. The results show that the existence of boarding schools is influenced by several factors, including adaptive, integrative, management, role, and function. The characteristics of an Islamic boarding school are reflected through its forming elements consisting of kiai, santri, mosque, dormitory, and the study of kitab kuning. Regarding policy dynamics, the harmonization of the relationship between education and politics can be seen through the need for education for state recognition and government policies in managing education according to its objectives. This research emphasizes that education is interested in and depends on state recognition, and conversely, the state has an interest in education to develop the potential of its citizens.