KAMPUS PERSANTREN SEBAGAI PILAR MODERASI BERAGAMA DI ERA GLOBALISASI: STUDI DI UNIVERSITAS DARUSSALAM GONTOR

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of pesantren-based universities as pillars of religious moderation in the era of globalization, with a case study at Universitas Darussalam Gontor (UNIDA Gontor). As a pesantren- based educational institution, UNIDA Gontor holds a strategic position in shaping a young generation that embraces religious moderation amidst the dynamics of globalization. Religious moderation is an important approach in addressing the growing challenges of radicalism and religious exclusivism. This research utilizes a descriptive qualitative approach, with data collection methods including in-depth interviews, participatory observation, and documentation. The informants in this study consist of lecturers, students, and staff at UNIDA Gontor, selected purposively. The results show that UNIDA Gontor consistently implements the values of religious moderation through various educational programs and social activities on campus. The integration of religious moderation in the academic curriculum, strengthening extracurricular activities that promote religious openness, and the role of lecturers in shaping students' moderate mindset are the key aspects of implementing moderation at this pesantren-based university. Furthermore, the challenges in maintaining the values of religious moderation include the influence of radical ideologies from outside the campus through social media and the internet, as well as internal differences in views regarding the concept of moderation itself. However, this study also identifies significant opportunities for UNIDA Gontor to become a role model for other pesantren-based universities in Indonesia in promoting religious moderation. Through national and international networks, UNIDA Gontor has the potential to expand its influence in developing inclusive Islamic education and playing an active role in creating a tolerant and dialogical academic environment in the era of globalization.