Challenges and Opportunities of Artificial Intelligence Adoption in Islamic Education in Indonesian Higher Education Institutions

This article aims to explore the challenges and opportunities of integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Islamic education within Indonesian Higher Education Institutions (IHEIs). Using qualitative interviews with scholars, the study examines the complexities involved in reconciling AI’s personalized learning potential with traditional Islamic pedagogical methods, which emphasize the teacher's central role in fostering holistic spiritual and moral student development. It addresses ethical concerns such as data privacy, algorithmic bias, and transparency, underscoring the need for equitable AI systems that align with Islamic ethical principles. Additionally, the research highlights the digital divide as a significant barrier to AI adoption, urging stakeholders to invest in improved infrastructure, digital literacy, and teacher training. Despite these challenges, scholars acknowledge AI’s potential to enhance educational quality by enabling more adaptive learning experiences, streamlining administrative processes, and fostering collaboration and innovation across IHEIs. The study emphasizes the need for a balanced and culturally sensitive approach, one that empowers educators and respects Islamic values, thereby ensuring that AI is not only a tool for learning enhancement but also one that preserves the integrity of traditional Islamic teachings. Finally, the research advocates for further exploration into contextually relevant AI tools, innovative pedagogical strategies, and collaborative frameworks to shape a future in which AI and Islamic education harmoniously support each other, enriching students' learning experiences without compromising core values.