al-Afkar, Journal For Islamic Studies
Vol. 9 No. 4 (2026)

The Leadership of the Kiai in the Dynamics of Globalization: Authority and Vision in Islamic Education

Ahmad Qoni Dewantoro (Studi Islam, Universitas Islam Darul ‘Ulum, Lamongan, Indonesia)
Babun Suharto (Studi Islam, Universitas Islam Darul ‘Ulum, Lamongan, Indonesia)
Ahmad Muthi’Uddin (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Sunan Giri Bojonegoro)
Masdar Hilmi (Studi Islam, Universitas Islam Darul ‘Ulum, Lamongan, Indonesia)
Agus Moh. Sholahuddin (Universitas Nahdlatul Ulama Sunan Giri Bojonegoro)



Article Info

Publish Date
28 Sep 2026

Abstract

Globalization presents both challenges and opportunities for Islamic education, particularly for Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) as traditional institutions deeply rooted in Indonesian culture and history. In this context, the leadership of the kiai plays a strategic role in maintaining Islamic values while responding to the demands of contemporary change. This article aims to analyze the role of kiai leadership through the dimensions of authority and vision in addressing the dynamics of globalization in Islamic education. This study employs a qualitative approach using a comprehensive literature review of relevant academic sources, including scholarly journals, books, and previous research. The findings indicate that kiai leadership is built upon two interrelated pillars: authority and vision. The authority of the kiai, derived from religious scholarship, spiritual charisma, and moral integrity, functions as a safeguard for preserving the authenticity of Islamic teachings and pesantren traditions. Meanwhile, the vision of the kiai serves as a strategic direction for integrating Islamic values with global competencies through curriculum innovation, human resource development, and the utilization of technology and collaborative networks. The synergy between adaptive authority and visionary leadership enables pesantren to remain relevant, competitive, and capable of producing graduates who are spiritually grounded, morally upright, and professionally competent in the era of globalization.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

Afkar_Journal

Publisher

Subject

Social Sciences

Description

al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is published by Association of Secondment Lecturers (Asosiasi Dosen DPK) UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung Indonesia. Focus of al-Afkar, Journal for Islamic Studies is on publishing original empirical research articles and theoretical reviews of Islamic Studies, ...