The Madrasah Principal's Strategy in Increasing Community Participation in the Diniyah Takmiliyah Awaliyah Madrasah in Deli Serdang

Abstract

Abstract: This study analyzes the strategy of the principal of Madrasah Diniyah Takmiliyah Awaliyah (MDTA) in increasing community participation in Deli Serdang Regency by integrating historical, sociological, cultural, and legal dimensions. A qualitative approach with an instrumental case study design reinforced by historical-comparative analysis was used in this study. The research subjects were determined purposively including the principal of MDTA, teachers, madrasah administrators, parents of students, community leaders, and local government officials. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and document analysis, with data validity guaranteed through triangulation and confirmability. The results show that the principal of MDTA utilizes cultural values and religious traditions of the Deli Malay community—tepang tawar, weekly wiridan, mutual cooperation, deliberation and consensus, and community self-reliance—as socio-cultural strategies in building participation. Supporting factors include location proximity, support from community and religious leaders, local government funds , and a flexible payment system; Meanwhile, inhibiting factors include community perception, competition from alternative institutions, student fatigue, changes in educational orientation, and managerial limitations. Implications include the involvement of community leaders, financial transparency, intensive communication, innovative programs, strategic partnerships, and ongoing evaluation. This research offers novelty through the integration of these four analytical dimensions in uncovering madrasah principals' strategies and contributing to the development of theories of Islamic educational leadership and social participation.

Keywords: Madrasah Principal Strategy, Community Participation, MDTA, Cultural Values, Religious Traditions