Indonesia Ministry of Religious Affairs launches pesantren development programs

The Indonesian Directorate General of Islamic Boarding Schools (Pesantren) under the Ministry of Religious Affairs has announced several strategic initiatives to modernize Islamic boarding schools and enhance student safety.

Director General Basnang Said introduced a ‘Quick Win’ program designed to foster independence, digital adaptation, and institutional recognition. To accelerate digital transformation and promote best practices, the ministry plans to collaborate with religious influencers and traditional leaders, including ‘Gus’ and ‘Ning’ (descendants of pesantren leaders).

To address safety concerns, the ministry has established the ‘Safe Santri’ Task Force. This unit will include working groups involving community figures and law enforcement agencies, such as the police and prosecutors, to ensure that cases of violence or sexual harassment are handled appropriately and referred to legal authorities when necessary. Additionally, the ministry aims to strengthen counseling services and explore certification schemes for pesantren caregivers.