University Leaders’ Views on Independent Campus Curriculum as Educational Reforms in Indonesian Islamic Universities

Abstract

The independent campus curriculum policy and implementation in Indonesian universities have faced many challenges during the past two years. This approach is complicated by the Indonesian school system, which divides education into religious and general institutions. The study aims to investigate the challenges and opportunities that Islamic Universities in Indonesia encounter when implementing the policy of the Independent Campus Curriculum as part of an educational policy reform initiative. We employed a case study approach and purposive sampling to select our prospective participants. Nine Islamic universities representing Indonesia’s eastern and western regions were chosen purposively. Thirteen leaders of Islamic universities who occupy various structural positions related to implementing the Independent Campus Curriculum were interviewed. Our research showed that Indonesian Islamic universities must establish grant money, encourage cooperation and partnerships with relevant institutions, and generate a wide range of activities following a publicly accessible independent campus curriculum policy. Despite implementation problems, Islamic institutions’ independent campus curriculum policy change offers great potential for campus quality improvement. This curriculum allows Islamic colleges to expand their collaborative networks and improve student skills. Our research has provided a new perspective on implementing the Independent Campus Curriculum, but only for Islamic higher education officials. A complete understanding requires input from students, stakeholders, and other interested parties.