Social Entrepreneurship in Islamic Educational Institutions: Financial Independence Strategy at Darussalam Gontor Islamic Boarding School
Keywords:
Financial Independence, Social Entrepreneurship, Islamic Boarding Schools, Productive WaqfAbstract
This study aims to analyze the implementationsocial entrepreneurship (SE) at the Darussalam Gontor Islamic Boarding School as a strategy to overcome significant economic pressures resulting from dependence on traditional financing sources, in order to achieve financial independence and sustainability. Using a qualitative case study approach with data from interviews, observations, and documentation, this study found that Gontor successfully integrated the philosophy of “berdikari” through the diversification of productive business units managed professionally under a transparent productive waqf system. This model rests on four pillars: income diversification, reinvestment, efficiency, and human resource empowerment. These findings have resulted in significant impacts, including expanding access to education through scholarships, improving staff welfare, and creating local jobs. Challengestensionbetween profit and social mission is addressed through the implementation of SROIframeworkand programscapacity buildingBased on this success, it is recommended that other Islamic boarding schools replicate the Gontor model by adopting the principles of productive waqf, business diversification, and the use of SROI.frameworkto ensure a balance between profitability and social mission.
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