Prophetic Leadership Innovation: Character Education Development Strategy in Vocational High Schools: Inovasi Kepemimpinan Profetik: Strategi Pengembangan Pendidikan Karakter di Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan

Zakiatul Erna Erna (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo)
Imelda Dian Rahmawati (Universitas Muhammadiyah Sidoarjo)

Indonesian Journal of Innovation Studies
Vol. 27 No. 1 (2026): January

General Background Leadership holds a vital role in institutional transformation and growth across diverse scales, locations, and timeframes. Specific Background This research examines the implementation of prophetic leadership within the context of character education at SMK Negeri 1 Gending, Probolinggo Regency. Knowledge Gap Previous literature lacks detailed qualitative analysis on how specific prophetic leadership dimensions, particularly personal excellence and the value of shiddiq, are internalized to strengthen teacher and student character within vocational school ecosystems. Aims This research uses a qualitative case study approach to explain how the school principal and teachers apply the principles of prophetic leadership in shaping students' characters. Results The findings indicate that prophetic leadership, focusing on the value of shiddiq (honesty), positively shapes students' religious character, while the principal successfully integrates religious programs, maintains a clean environment, and provides direct motivation. Novelty The integration of prophetic leadership traits with a humanistic approach and personal excellence constructs a holistic educational ecosystem that merges spiritual values with administrative management. Implications These findings demonstrate that prophetic leadership practices serve as an essential model for educational institutions seeking to balance academic achievement with robust moral character development. Highlights: Prophetic leadership principles are operationalized through prophetic characteristics such as honesty, trustworthiness, effective communication, and wisdom. School principals function as innovators by establishing religious programs, maintaining clean environments, and providing direct motivation to staff and students. Integrating religious values and character education creates a comprehensive educational ecosystem that supports holistic student transformation. Keywords: Prophetic, Leadership, School Principal, Character Education, Vocational School