DAKWAH INTERVENTION MODEL IN ADDRESSING THE ISSUE OF ACADEMIC DROPOUT: AN EMPIRICAL STUDY IN OK9 ZONE MANGGATAL, SABAH

Academic dropout is an increasingly critical issue, particularly in rural areas that are exposed to socioeconomic challenges, geographical limitations, and restricted access to education. Dakwah (Islamic outreach) is seen not only as a spiritual mechanism but also as a strategy for character development among students through value-based education, moral guidance, and community engagement. Therefore, this study aims to explore and develop an effective dakwah intervention model to address the issue of academic dropout among students in Zone OK9 Manggatal, Sabah. This research adopts a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving observations, document analysis, and semi-structured interviews with school administrators, Malay language panel heads, and teachers directly involved with remedial students. The findings indicate that approaches such as interpersonal dakwah, dakwah bi al-Hikmah, dakwah Tikrar, dakwah Hasanah, and psychological dakwah have a positive impact on improving student motivation, self-discipline, and school attendance. The results of this study lay the foundation for the development of a contextual dakwah intervention model that can be adapted to high-risk dropout areas. The implications of the study suggest that authorities should provide greater opportunities for the integration of education and dakwah as a holistic effort to prevent academic dropout.