Management of Change in Islamic Educational Institutions Based on Kitab Memorization Program Innovation for Enhancing Santri Quality in Al-Istiqomah Islamic Boarding Schools

Abstract

This study aims to analyze change management at Pondok Pesantren Al-Istiqomah through the innovation of the book memorization program, identify supporting and inhibiting factors, and examine its impact on improving student quality. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, direct observation, and documentation studies, which were then analyzed using data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The results indicate that Pondok Pesantren Al-Istiqomah implements change management in a planned and systematic manner through four main stages: consensus-based planning, organization of a specialized management team, tiered execution (I'dadi and mustawa classes), and multi-layered evaluation (daily to annual) aligned with the Graduate Competency Standards (SKL). This program innovation faces challenges regarding differences in students' initial abilities and time constraints due to a dense formal curriculum schedule. However, intensive guidance interventions and mass memorization events (talaran akbar) successfully minimized resistance. This study proves that well-managed change management enhances student quality holistically across academic aspects (book mastery) and character traits (discipline and responsibility) without eroding the traditional identity of the pesantren.