History of the Taman Pendidikan Islam (TPI) in North Sumatera (1950-1966)

This study examines the historical development of Taman Pendidikan Islam (TPI) in North Sumatra from 1950 to 1966. Using a sociological approach and historical method, the research explores the state of Islamic education before TPI’s establishment, the motivations behind its founding, and its contributions to Islamic education. The findings reveal that Islamic education was limited, especially in plantation areas where workers faced poverty and lacked access to religious learning. Founded on May 1, 1950, by Rivai Abdul Manap Nasution, TPI focused on establishing madrasahs in plantations across North Sumatra, Aceh, and Riau. Within 17 months, it had founded 33 Madrasah Ibtidaiyah, employing 43 teachers and educating 2,899 students. TPI played a crucial role in expanding Islamic education, enhancing religious literacy, training educators, and improving teacher welfare, significantly impacting plantation communities.