<![CDATA[The background of this research is driven by the rampant phenomenon of moral decline among adolescents, where the personal development of students often does not align with national educational goals. In response to these challenges, SMP Islam Al Fattahiyyah Tulungagung implemented a breakthrough by integrating the values and culture of the Islamic boarding school (pesantren) into the formal schooling system to shape student character. This study aims to describe and analyze the concept and implementation of integrating pesantren culture in building akhlaqul karimah (noble character) among grade VII students at SMP Islam Al Fattahiyyah Tulungagung. This study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. The research subjects included the principal, vice-principal of curriculum, vice-principal of student affairs, guidance and counseling teacher, dormitory warden, and grade VII students. Data collection techniques were conducted through participant observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies. Data analysis utilized data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing techniques. The results showed that: (1) The concept of integration at SMP Islam Al Fattahiyyah manifests through the synthesis of space and time via a compulsory boarding school system, the alignment of the national curriculum with the local pesantren curriculum (comprising the study of classical texts/Kitab Kuning Hujajun Nahdliyin, Tajweed, and Nahdlatul Ulama/NU values), as well as the implementation of consistent social regulations such as gender-segregated classrooms. (2) The implementation of integration runs effectively as a hidden curriculum operating through four main patterns: the power of exemplary behavior (modeling) from educators, routines that foster habit formation (habituation) such as congregational prayers and memorization check-ins, a supportive dormitory social environment that fosters brotherhood (ukhuwah), and a system of rewards alongside educational spiritual sanctions (ta'zir). This integration successfully fosters the spiritual, social, and personal dimensions of akhlaqul karimah in students during their critical transition phase in grade VII. Despite challenges such as homesickness early in the semester and the influx of gadget-driven information, these obstacles were successfully addressed through a personal Islamic approach and strict synergy with parents.]]>
