Pioneer: Journal of Language and Literature
Vol 18 No 1 (2026)

Locally based syncretic literacy practices among multicultural students in North Sumatra

Jubilezer Sihite (Universitas HKBP Nommensen)
Rotua Elfrida Pangaribuan (Universitas HKBP Nommensen)
Nenni Triana Sinaga (Universitas HKBP Nommensen)



Article Info

Publish Date
30 Jun 2026

Abstract

This study reveals how different multicultural students in North Sumatra interpret heritage symbols as literacy artifacts available in their new place, and how the assimilation process occurs in the context of broader literacy practices in the surrounding environment. Through a participatory case study approach, students were encouraged to capture photographs of literacy artifacts of their choosing within their own environments and to engage in group discussions about these images. The data were analyzed using a framework of syncretic literacy practices, emphasizing acceptance, adaptation, adoption, and synergy or reaction. This study explores ethical meaning-making across different spaces, languages, and modes, examining how multicultural students interpret local culture from their home contexts and whether these interpretations mirror broader faith-based literacy practices within their communities. The results suggest that syncretic literacy practices hold significant potential to inform policy development, enhance the role of literacy in everyday life, and improve literacy education curricula. Moreover, such practices promote the blending and integration of culturally diverse traditions in both the form and organization of literacy activities.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

pioneer

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Social Sciences

Description

Pioneer is a journal of language and literature which provides academics and practitioners with the opportunities to put out their ideas, theoretical applications, data analyses, discourses, and literary criticisms. This journal is managed by Faculty of Letters, University of Abdurachman Saleh ...