<![CDATA[This study aims to analyze the role of penghulu in the implementation of marriage guidance at the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA) of Karangpandan District, Karanganyar Regency in 2025. The study was motivated by the increasing divorce rate in Karanganyar Regency, which indicates the low readiness of prospective couples in building household life. Penghulu have a strategic role as marriage guidance facilitators who provide education regarding sakinah family values, household communication, conflict management, reproductive health, and Islamic marriage law. This study employed a descriptive qualitative approach using observation, interviews, and documentation techniques. The research informants consisted of penghulu, the head of KUA, Islamic religious counselors, and prospective brides and grooms participating in marriage guidance programs. Data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman interactive model through data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawing. The findings reveal that penghulu act as educators, motivators, facilitators, counselors, and administrative assistants in marriage services. They educate prospective couples regarding rights and obligations of husband and wife, family communication, household financial management, reproductive health, parenting, and Islamic marriage law. The obstacles encountered include limited time, low participant involvement, educational differences among participants, and limited public awareness regarding the importance of marriage guidance. The efforts undertaken by penghulu include persuasive communication methods, personal approaches, simplified educational materials, and individual consultation services. This study confirms that penghulu play a significant role in improving the readiness of prospective couples and minimizing the potential for household conflict and divorce.]]>
