Negotiating Tradition and Modernity: An Ethnographic Study of Leadership and Collaboration in Acehnese Islamic Higher Education

Authors

Basri Basri, IAIN Langsa, Kota Langsa, IndonesiaFollow
Mujiburrahman Mujiburrahman, UIN Ar Raniry, Banda Aceh, IndonesiaFollow
Mohammad Nasir, IAIN Langsa, Kota Langsa, IndonesiaFollow
Muhammad Nazar, IAIN Lhoksemawe, Kota Lhoksemawe, IndonesiaFollow

Abstract

This ethnographic study explored the relationship between State University Institutes (SUIs) and Ulama Dayah (Islamic scholars) as mutual co-existing beneficiaries in an Islamic educational organization in Aceh, Indonesia. While the relationship is characterized by a shared commitment to Islamic education, tensions simmer regarding leadership styles and the balance between tradition and modernity. This study is guided by the following research questions: (a) How do SUI leaders in Aceh perceive and manage the inherent tensions between upholding Islamic values and adapting to contemporary demands? (b) How do these leaders reconcile the potentially competing expectations of religious and secular stakeholders? (c) How do Ulama Dayah perceive the organizational realities and leadership dynamics within SUIs? Employing in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including local scholars such as the head of Dayah leaders, SUI leaders, and Acehnese Islamic scholars, the study revealed how the beneficiaries act as local figures, fostering collaboration within SUIs. The scholars’ strengths lie in mediation, promoting servant leadership, and advocating for a long-term vision co-created with all stakeholders. This approach, grounded in Islamic principles of empathy and mutual respect (Rahmatan lil Alamin), offers a pathway towards a more harmonious and progressive Islamic educational environment in Aceh. Thus, this study highlights the importance of collaboration, shared vision, and stakeholder engagement, as well as navigating the balance between tradition and modernity, as the foundation for conflict resolution within organizations for SUIs.

Keywords

state university institutes, Ulama Dayah, ethnography, leadership, organizational realities, Islamic education

Author Bio(s)

This research team comprises esteemed academicians and researchers from respected State Islamic Universities (SUIs) in Aceh Province. (1) Dr. H. Basri Ibrahim, M.A.: A distinguished figure in the field of Education and Dakwah (Islamic Preaching), Dr. Basri has enriched academia with his research and teachings. From 2019 to 2023, he served as the Rector of Institut Agama Islam Negeri (IAIN) Langsa, leaving a lasting impact on the institution, (2) Prof. Mujiburrahman, MAg: Currently the Rector of State Islamic University Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh, Prof. Mujiburrahman brings a wealth of expertise in Education, Islamic Education Thought, Education Management, and Social Sciences. His leadership and scholarship continue to inspire, (3) Dr. Mohd. Nasir, MA: An academician from IAIN Langsa and previously the Vice Rector of Administration and SUIs Organization, Dr. Nasir's deep knowledge lies in the field of Islamic Education. His contributions to IAIN Langsa have been invaluable, and (4) Muhammad Nazar: A researcher from IAIN Lhoksemawe, Muhammad Nazar delves into the Social Sciences within the context of Islamic Boarding Schools in Aceh Province. His insights into this unique educational landscape are crucial for understanding the region’s social fabric. Please direct correspondence to Dr. H. Basri Ibrahim at basri.ibrahim@iainlangsa.ac.id

Acknowledgements

The Researchers are deeply grateful to the esteemed Acehnese Scholars whose profound insights enriched this study. Their wisdom, gleaned from in-depth interviews, illuminated the complexities faced by State Universities of Islamic Studies (SUIs). The Researchers particularly acknowledged Mudi Mesra Samalanga, Dayah Darussalam Labuhan Haji, and Dayah Darul Ihsan Aceh Besar for their hospitality and shared experiences. Engaging with SUIs through ethnography unveiled their social dynamics, leadership practices, and the crucial support provided by Ulama Dayah Aceh. Recognizing the value of diverse perspectives, The Researchers hope this study fosters informed dialogue for a more inclusive and effective educational system. The Researchers express our sincere appreciation to all who contributed to this endeavor.

Publication Date

1-31-2026

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 International License.

DOI

10.46743/2160-3715/2026.7834

Recommended APA Citation

Basri, Mujiburrahaman, Nasir, M., & Nazar, M. (2026). Negotiating tradition and modernity: An ethnographic study of leadership and collaboration in Acehnese Islamic higher education. The Qualitative Report, 31(1), 4999-5025. https://doi.org/10.46743/2160-3715/2026.7834

ORCID ID

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0599-2868

ResearcherID

57934636000