<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the managerial challenges faced by Christian Theological High Schools (SMTK) in Jayapura Regency and to formulate strategies to enhance their competitiveness. Using a qualitative approach with a case study design, data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation involving foundation leaders, school principals, and teachers. The findings reveal that SMTKs face systemic managerial challenges, including chronic financial crises, inadequate infrastructure, a predominance of honorary staff, and centralistic foundation leadership. Distinct from previous studies that predominantly focus on program evaluation (CIPPO model) and character education, this study offers theoretical novelty by integrating transformational leadership models and Total Quality Management (TQM) contextualized within the socio-cultural dynamics of peripheral regions, Furthermore, it positions the strengthening of religious moderation as a unique strategic variable to enhance social legitimacy and school competitiveness in pluralistic societies, Key strategies include diversifying funding through partnerships, vocational-based curriculum innovation, and the utilization of information technology. In conclusion, the synergy between adaptive leadership and governance reform is crucial for improving the quality and competitiveness of SMTKs in Jayapura. ABSTRAK Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis tantangan manajerial yang dihadapi Sekolah Menengah Teologi Kristen (SMTK) di Kabupaten Jayapura dan merumuskan strategi peningkatan daya saingnya. Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan desain studi kasus, data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara mendalam, observasi, dan dokumentasi terhadap pimpinan yayasan, kepala sekolah, serta guru. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa SMTK menghadapi tantangan manajerial sistemik, meliputi krisis finansial kronis, keterbatasan sarana prasarana, dominasi tenaga pendidik honorer, serta kepemimpinan yayasan yang sentralistik. Berbeda dengan penelitian terdahulu yang mayoritas berfokus pada evaluasi program (model CIPPO) dan pendidikan karakter, studi ini menawarkan kebaruan teoretis melalui integrasi model kepemimpinan transformasional dan manajemen mutu (TQM) yang dikontekstualisasikan dengan dinamika sosiokultural wilayah periferal. Selain itu, penelitian ini memosisikan penguatan moderasi beragama sebagai variabel strategis unik untuk meningkatkan legitimasi sosial dan daya saing sekolah di tengah masyarakat pluralistik. Strategi kunci lainnya mencakup diversifikasi pendanaan melalui kemitraan, inovasi kurikulum berbasis vokasi, serta pemanfaatan teknologi informasi. Kesimpulannya, sinergi antara kepemimpinan yang adaptif dan reformasi tata kelola sangat krusial untuk meningkatkan mutu SMTK di Jayapura.]]>
