Al Ishlah Jurnal Pendidikan
Vol 17, No 4 (2025): DECEMBER 2025

Religious Education for Non-Muslim Students in Aceh: An Evaluation of Inclusivity and Implementation

Suharman Suharman (STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh)
Tengku Hafinda (STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh)
Nur Rohman (STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh)
Rahmad Syah Putra (Universitas Bina Bangsa Getsempena)
Khairuddin Hasan (STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh)
Maya Agustina (STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh)
Farah Sumaiyah (STAIN Teungku Dirundeng Meulaboh)



Article Info

Publish Date
09 Jan 2026

Abstract

The right to religious education for all students is guaranteed by Indonesian law. However, in Muslim-majority regions such as Aceh, the implementation of religious education for non-Muslim students remains inconsistent and under-explored. This study investigates how such education is implemented and evaluated in public schools, with a focus on inclusivity and compliance with legal standards. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the study explored the lived experiences of principals, religious teachers, non-Muslim students, and religious leaders across four regions in Aceh: Aceh Singkil, West Aceh, Sabang, and Lhokseumawe. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and document analysis, and analyzed using thematic triangulation. Findings reveal that due to the lack of non-Muslim religious teachers, schools rely on external religious leaders to provide instruction and conduct evaluations. Most learning takes place in houses of worship and is integrated into regular religious activities. While schools facilitate this process, the absence of standardized curricula and assessment rubrics has led to inconsistent learning outcomes and unequal educational experiences for minority students. The study identifies a hybrid model of religious education delivery that partially fulfills legal obligations but lacks integration with national educational standards. It concludes that while efforts to provide religious education for non-Muslim students exist, they are fragmented and depend heavily on local initiatives. A national policy framework is urgently needed to ensure equitable, inclusive, and accountable religious education for all students.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

alishlah

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Mathematics Other

Description

This journal focuses on advancing scholarly research and critical discourse in the field of education. It publishes original research articles that address contemporary issues and emerging trends in curriculum development, instructional practices, learning processes, educational policy, and teacher ...