Leadership Based on Islamic Values in Building Madrasah Competitive Advantage

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of leadership based on Islamic values ​​in building competitive advantage in madrasas and to formulate a conceptual model that integrates Islamic values ​​with educational institution management strategies. The study used a qualitative approach with library research. Data were obtained through searching and critical review of articles from SINTA-accredited national journals, reputable international journals, scientific books, and relevant documents discussing Islamic educational leadership, madrasa management, organizational culture, and competitive advantage published primarily in the 2021–2026 period. Data analysis was conducted using content analysis and thematic analysis through data reduction, categorization, interpretation, and thematic synthesis. The results of the study indicate that the values ​​of trust, justice, deliberation, good deeds, goodness, and maslahah are the main foundations in building effective madrasah governance, strengthening a culture of quality, improving teacher professionalism, developing institutional innovation, expanding partnerships, and increasing public trust. This study offers a conceptual model that integrates Islamic leadership values ​​with strategic managerial processes as the basis for establishing a competitive advantage in madrasahs. The implications of the study indicate that madrasah principals need to internalize Islamic values ​​in strategic planning, decision-making, human resource management, and organizational culture development, while policymakers can utilize these values ​​as a basis for strengthening the leadership competencies of madrasah principals and formulating policies to improve the quality of Islamic education. Thus, leadership based on Islamic values ​​becomes an important instrument in realizing superior, adaptive, competitive, and sustainable madrasahs.