<![CDATA[The advancement of digital technology has transformed social media from a mere space of communication into a learning environment actively utilized by Generation Z. In the context of Islamic religious education, social media functions as an informal learning space that complements formal, non-formal, and family-based educational pathways. This study aims to examine the opportunities, challenges, and optimization strategies of social media as an informal Islamic religious education space for Generation Z. Based on a synthesis of relevant literature, the findings indicate that social media offers opportunities in the form of easier access to religious information, increased learning engagement, as well as a space for da‘wah and value-based education through digital platforms such as YouTube and TikTok. However, the expansion of digital learning spaces also presents challenges, including aqidah-related concerns, misinformation and disinformation, degradation of communication ethics, low awareness of digital legal norms, and psychosocial risks. Optimizing social media for educational purposes requires pedagogical and ethical strategies through strengthening digital literacy and Islamic literacy, internalizing the values of tabayyun and digital politeness, curating credible content, and ensuring active involvement of educators and families. This study concludes that there is a gap between Generation Z’s intensive use of social media and the need for purposeful and value-oriented Islamic religious education. Therefore, an integrative approach based on literacy, ethics, and digital pedagogical design is needed so that social media can function effectively as a relevant informal Islamic religious education space for the digital generation.]]>
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