Opportunities and Challenges for Zakat and Waqf Management Graduates in Optimizing the Role of Community-Based Vocational Training Center

Akhris Fuadatis Sholikha (UIN Prof. K.H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto)
Safrina Muarrifah (UIN Prof. K.H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto)
Almaika Nur Elisza (UIN Prof. K.H. Saifuddin Zuhri Purwokerto)

Filantropi: Jurnal Manajemen Zakat dan Wakaf
Vol. 7 No. 2 (2026): Filantropi: Jurnal Manajemen Zakat dan Wakaf

This study is motivated by the important role of Community Vocational Training Centers (BLKK) at Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) in strengthening the economy of the Muslim community and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in enhancing the skills and self-reliance of the younger generation. However, many BLKKs still face institutional challenges and resource constraints. In this context, graduates of the Zakat and Waqf Management (MAZAWA) program have strategic potential to contribute by applying Islamic philanthropic values in the management of training and economic empowerment at Islamic boarding schools. The objective of this study is to analyze the opportunities and challenges faced by MAZAWA graduates in enhancing the self-reliance of BLKKs from an Islamic philanthropic perspective. The research method used was a qualitative approach employing purposive sampling and snowball sampling techniques. The study was conducted at the Syubbanul Wathon BLKK in Magelang, which was selected because it is one of the active pesantren BLKKs and has strategic partnerships with various parties. Research informants included the MAZAWA program coordinator at UIN Saizu Purwokerto, BLKK managers, training alumni, tenants, students, and the Pojok Zakat Wakaf (POZAWA) community. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation, then analyzed thematically to identify patterns and relationships among the research findings. MAZAWA graduates have significant potential to strengthen the BLKK ecosystem through the integration of Islamic philanthropic values, human resource development, and social entrepreneurship innovation. However, this optimization is hindered by limited facilities, disparities in accreditation, and a gap between alumni competencies and industry needs. This study is limited by its single-site scope and a qualitative approach that does not measure quantitative impacts. Therefore, future research should expand the scope of study and employ mixed methods to comprehensively measure the effectiveness of integrating philanthropic values on institutional self-reliance.