<![CDATA[Co-curricular activities are an integral part of the curriculum that play a vital role in supporting the achievement of students' overall competencies, including knowledge, skills, and character. However, the implementation of co-curricular activities in schools still faces various obstacles, such as suboptimal planning, formalistic implementation, and the lack of systematic integration of character values. This study aims to examine the optimization of co-curricular activities based on Strengthening Character Education (PPK) as an effort to improve the quality of graduates and shape students with character. The research method used is a literature review by analyzing various scientific sources, books, journals, research results, and relevant policy documents. Data were analyzed using content analysis techniques to identify concepts, findings, and patterns related to the implementation of character-based co-curricular activities. The results of the study indicate that co-curricular activities serve to strengthen and enrich intracurricular learning and are an effective medium for internalizing the character values of religiousness, nationalism, independence, mutual cooperation, and integrity. Optimizing co-curricular activities can be achieved through targeted planning, consistent implementation, and ongoing evaluation, involving the active participation of teachers, schools, and parents. In addition to contributing to student character development, co-curricular activities also have a positive impact on improving academic achievement, social skills, collaboration, and responsibility. Therefore, co-curricular activities based on Strengthening Character Education can be an effective strategy for improving the quality of education and producing graduates who excel, possess integrity, and are able to adapt to the demands of community life.]]>
