Charismatic Kyai Leadership Social Capital And Educational Innovation Shaping Student Enrollment

General Background Islamic boarding schools have experienced rapid growth and structural development, leading to intense institutional competition for sustainability and new prospective learners. Specific Background Amidst modernization and digital transformation, these institutions rely heavily on the central figure of the religious scholar to navigate challenges, adapt programs, and maintain public trust. Knowledge Gap While existing literature extensively covers institutional development and religious teaching, limited research integrates charismatic authority and network theories to explain concrete mechanisms for attracting incoming learners. Aims This study analyzes the specific managerial strategies of religious leaders in stimulating enrollment through charismatic authority, promotional communication, programmatic advancement, and community network development. Results Findings reveal that public trust is constructed through socio-religious legitimacy, which is subsequently mobilized via digital media platforms, conventional outreach, and community engagement like dhikr assemblies. Furthermore, rapid reading methods, tuition subsidies, and entrepreneurship programs act as crucial practical attractions for families. Novelty This study demonstrates that enrollment is not solely dependent on a single central figure but is formed by converting personal charismatic authority into institutional strength involving alumni, guardians, and the wider community. Implications Boarding school administrators must strategically integrate religious figures with measurable programmatic quality, inclusive services, and comprehensive digital communication networks to ensure long-term institutional competitiveness. Highlights Institutional trust emerges from socio-religious legitimacy combined with active community engagement through digital media platforms and conventional outreach. Rapid learning methods, specialized skills training, tuition subsidies, and entrepreneurship initiatives serve as vital practical attractions for prospective families. Consolidating stakeholder networks transforms personal religious authority into collective institutional strength, ensuring long-term competitiveness and sustainability. Keywords Charismatic Authority; Social Networks; Educational Strategies; Public Trust; Institutional Sustainability