Revitalisation of Rejang tribal local wisdom: integration of cultural values in the operational curriculum innovation of elementary schools in Rejang Lebong, Indonesia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Local wisdom is important to preserve and integrate into education to build the character of the nation's future generation, Rejang tribe cultural values hold potential for character building and integration into elementary school curricula. This study aims to determine the values of Rejang tribal local wisdom in the innovation of elementary school operational curriculum. A qualitative approach with a case study design is used to explore the values of Rejang local wisdom. The research subjects were elementary school teachers and students in Rejang Lebong Regency, Indonesia. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, observation, and document study. Data were analyzed with Miles and Huberman's interactive model. The results revealed that the Rejang cultural values instilled in the operational curriculum were Mulo Nu Mia (mutual cooperation) and Pun Jabai (kinship), in addition other cultural values were also instilled through Kaganga subject matter and Kejei dance extracurricular. This research is expected to contribute to efforts to revitalise the role of local wisdom in character education in elementary schools. The model of integrating local wisdom values can also be applied to school curricula in other regions.