Yeny Tri Nur Rahmawati, Siti Aisyatul Arifah and Ilhamus Subhaniyah TRANSFORMASI SISTEM PENDIDIKAN PESANTREN SALAF MENUJU MODERN DALAM MENGEMBANGKAN SOFTSKILL SANTRI DI PESANTREN KHUZUNUL IMAM KAUMAN BONDOWOSO

Abstract

The transformation of traditional salaf Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) toward a more modern educational system is a strategic effort to develop the soft skills of students at Pesantren Khuzunul Imam Kauman, Bondowoso. This study aims to analyze changes in curriculum, teaching methods, and learning approaches implemented within the pesantren to prepare students for contemporary challenges. The research employs a descriptive qualitative approach using a case study method and field research design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation, and were validated using source and technique triangulation. The findings reveal that integrating traditional Islamic values with modern educational practices—such as the use of information technology and the enhancement of extracurricular activities—plays a key role in fostering interpersonal skills, creativity, and critical thinking among students. Furthermore, the active involvement of pesantren leaders in designing adaptive learning systems has been crucial to the success of this transformation. As a result, pesantren are no longer seen solely as centers for classical Islamic studies but are evolving into institutions capable of producing graduates who are morally upright and intellectually competitive in today’s global context. This research offers recommendations for other pesantren to adopt similar educational reforms, thereby enabling them to respond to global demands without compromising the foundational salafi identity that underpins traditional Islamic education.