Implementing Islamic Religious Education for Character Formation in Contemporary Indonesian Schooling

Purpose: This study aims to examine the implementation of Islamic Religious Education (IRE) in fostering students’ Islamic character within the context of Indonesian primary education. It seeks to understand how structured religious learning contributes to moral development and the cultivation of values that align with Islamic principles in a pluralistic society. Method: Employing a qualitative descriptive design, the study was conducted in a public primary school in Bengkulu, Indonesia. Data were collected through classroom observations, interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis. Triangulation techniques were applied to ensure the validity of findings, and data analysis followed the steps of reduction, presentation, and conclusion drawing. Findings: The results indicate that Islamic Religious Education plays a significant role in shaping students’ daily behavior and moral awareness. Most students demonstrated positive Islamic character traits such as discipline, responsibility, and respect for teachers and peers. Although some challenges remain, particularly in addressing external influences from the broader social environment, the integration of religious education into school activities has been effective in reinforcing Islamic values and minimizing negative behaviors. Significance: The study underscores the importance of Islamic Religious Education as a means of character formation in contemporary Indonesia. By linking religious instruction to students’ moral and social development, schools can contribute not only to individual growth but also to the strengthening of national character. These insights are relevant for educators, policymakers, and scholars seeking to enhance the role of religion in addressing global challenges related to ethics, identity, and social cohesion.