12 Waiheru
Vol 12 No 1 (2026): 12 Waiheru

Cultural-religious synergy in gender-responsive education: A qualitative study of the hukurila indigenous community in maluku

Feky Manuputty (Universitas Pattimura, Indonesia)
Simona Christina Henderika Litaay (Universitas Pattimura, Indonesia)
Afdhal (Universitas Pattimura, Indonesia)
Nathalia Debby Makaruku (Universitas Pattimura, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
18 May 2026

Abstract

This study investigates how cultural traditions and religious values intersect with gender-responsive education to shape family well-being in indigenous Maluku communities, focusing on Hukurila village in Ambon. While gender-responsive education is central to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 4: Quality Education and SDG 5: Gender Equality), patriarchal norms continue to limit women’s access to education, particularly in entrepreneurship and leadership, with minimal family engagement in promoting gender equity. The research addresses how cultural-religious synergy can support inclusive education in this context. Using a qualitative descriptive approach within the sociology of education and gender studies, data were collected through in-depth interviews with youth, women, customary leaders, religious leaders, and local authorities; participatory observation; and analysis of local documents and church programs. Thematic analysis explored how communities construct gender equality through cultural and religious frameworks. Findings reveal tensions between patriarchal traditions and gender agendas. The “tiga batutungku” (government, customary, and religious leaders) act ambivalently, while local wisdom, such as badraheng, offers potential for inclusive education. Church family programs further demonstrate the capacity to shift paradigms toward equitable family well-being. The novelty lies in advancing the concept of cultural-religious synergy as a framework for gender-responsive education in indigenous contexts.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

12waiheru

Publisher

Subject

Description

12 Waiheru is a peer-reviewed academic journal published by the Balai Diklat Keagamaan Ambon, appearing twice a year in June and December. The journal serves as an open and dynamic space for scholars, practitioners, and educators from across the world to share original research and critical ...