26 April 2025

Summary

In this interview with the headmaster of SMKAS Kuning, Pak Arya, the discussion centers on curriculum management, student development, and school facilities. He emphasizes the importance of a curriculum that addresses the spiritual, environmental, social, and technological needs of students. The headmaster also highlights how the school's boarding system and spiritual programs help in shaping students. Additionally, he discusses the challenges in managing educational resources and recruiting qualified teachers while focusing on maintaining service excellence and meeting the needs of both students and parents.

Takeaways

• 😀 The curriculum is an essential part of education, serving as a map that guides students toward their goals.
• 😀 The curriculum in Indonesia is dynamic, with the latest being the 'Kurikulum Merdeka' (Independent Curriculum). However, the fundamental goal remains the same: to educate and shape morally and spiritually strong citizens.
• 😀 In Indonesia, there is no comprehensive educational blueprint, which results in continuous changes in the curriculum.
• 😀 For schools with a religious background, such as Islamic boarding schools, the curriculum must incorporate religious values, which are essential for addressing the needs of students.
• 😀 Schools, especially private ones, have the flexibility to offer tailored education programs, which provide them with a competitive edge over public schools.
• 😀 The SMK Telkom Sekar Kemuling curriculum is based on four key pillars: spiritual development (makrifatullah), environmental awareness, social skills, and science and technology.
• 😀 The first pillar, makrifatullah, focuses on introducing students to Allah, which emphasizes spiritual development and strengthens their faith.
• 😀 The second pillar emphasizes an environmental curriculum, addressing the needs of 'digital natives' who grow up in a world shaped by technology.
• 😀 The third pillar highlights the importance of social skills such as public speaking and other essential interpersonal skills for students to thrive in society.
• 😀 The fourth pillar of the curriculum is focused on science and technology, ensuring that students are well-prepared to adapt to the ever-evolving technological landscape.
• 😀 Managing students in a boarding school setting involves not only the formal curriculum but also spiritual practices such as prayer, tahajud, and Quran memorization, ensuring that students are well-rounded both academically and spiritually.

Q & A

What is the role of curriculum in education according to the headmaster?

The curriculum is seen as a roadmap guiding students towards the educational goals, aiming to educate and shape the nation's future through knowledge, faith, and moral character.

How does the school adapt its curriculum to meet the needs of students?

The curriculum is designed with four pillars: spiritual education (Makrifatullah), environmental awareness, social skills, and science and technology. These pillars ensure students are well-rounded, with strong faith, social skills, and knowledge in technology.

What is the significance of the four pillars in the curriculum?

The four pillars are crucial in addressing the holistic development of students: strengthening their faith, enhancing social interactions, increasing environmental awareness, and preparing them for the demands of modern science and technology.

How does the school environment contribute to the development of students?

The school offers a boarding school environment that integrates religious practices such as prayer and memorization of the Quran, while also focusing on academic and social skills development. This structure helps students develop strong personal values and social interactions.

What makes private schools different from public schools in terms of curriculum and student management?

Private schools, particularly those with a boarding school system, tend to offer a more personalized curriculum and focus on spiritual, social, and technological skills. They are also more flexible in meeting the unique needs of their students, providing value-added services for parents.

How does the school integrate religious teachings into the curriculum?

The curriculum is enriched with religious elements, including daily prayers, tahajud, and Quran memorization, ensuring that students maintain strong spiritual values alongside their academic pursuits.

What challenges do private schools face when managing facilities and infrastructure?

Managing school facilities requires balancing student needs with available funding. Schools must prioritize their budget and ensure that resources are allocated effectively, avoiding overspending or dissatisfaction from students due to unmet needs.

How is the recruitment of teachers managed at the school?

Teacher recruitment is influenced by fiscal policies and the school's budget. Ideally, each subject should have a dedicated teacher, but schools must adjust to financial constraints, especially post-COVID, when demand for boarding school placements has decreased.

Why is it important for teachers to practice religious values in a religious school?

Teachers in religious schools must embody Islamic values, as they are responsible for teaching Quranic and religious knowledge. Their personal spiritual practices help foster a strong connection with students, ensuring alignment in teaching values like faith and knowledge.

What is the key to attracting and retaining students in private schools?

The key to success lies in providing excellent service and a personalized educational experience. When parents and students feel valued and satisfied with the school's offerings, it increases the likelihood of retention, even amidst economic challenges.