Pesantren, as traditional Islamic educational institutions in Indonesia, play a crucial role in shaping the character of students (santri). The robust tradition of these boarding schools has been instrumental in preserving the values of Islam’s religion and culture.
However, in the era of globalization and technological advancement, it is imperative for boarding schools to also embrace multicultural education. Multicultural education in Pesantren is a concept that promotes the appreciation of cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity, thereby nurturing students who are more tolerant, open-minded, and prepared to face an increasingly diverse world.
Multicultural education in Pesantren offers students the opportunity to comprehend and respect the cultural and religious diversity present in society. This is particularly important as Indonesia is a nation rich in cultural and religious diversity. Through multicultural education, students can learn about various traditions, customs, and religions prevalent in their surroundings, helping to mitigate stereotypes and prejudices against other groups.