The importance of Islamic boarding schools in shaping children's character

Pict: Raden Paku Modern Islamic Boarding School

Islamic Boarding School (Pondok Pesantren) is an environment where children learn, grow, and develop in Islamic teachings and has become an important foundation in shaping children's character. In Boarding School, they not only get formal education, but also engage in social experiences because they live with friends who are far from their origin and they have to live like a family. They also get a deep spiritual, and cultural education. There are several reasons why Islamic boarding schools play an important role in shaping children's character: 

1. Learning Islamic Values

Islamic Boarding School is known as a place where children not only get an academic education, but also strong Islamic values. They learn about religion, they are taught the Qur'an and Al Kitab everyday, they are taught tawadhu' and good atitude, morality, and discipline. This helps build a solid character and spiritual foundation early on, shaping their character to become responsible, caring and noble individuals.

2. Build Independence

In Islamic Boarding School, children are taught to be independent. They learn to do many things on their own, including daily tasks, self-care, and time management. This helps them develop strong independence, preparing them to face challenges in the real world.

3. Strong Social Engagement

Islamic Boarding School often has a closely community, where children learn about cooperation, togetherness, and mutual respect. They learn to interact with different types of people, broaden their horizons, and understand the importance of tolerance and diversity. This shapes their character to be more caring towards others.

 4. Focus on Science and Practical Skills

Apart from the spiritual and social aspects, boarding schools also emphasize learning in science and practical skills. Children not only study the Quran and hadith, but also general subjects such as math, science, and languages. They are taught to think critically, foster creativity, and develop the skills necessary for success in various fields. In addition, the boarding school also accommodates the talents of its students so that the boarding school also often participates in general competitions that are not inferior to public schools out there. 

5. Discipline Individuals

The Boarding School also give importance to educating children about discipline. In a structured environment, they learn about rules, responsibilities, and the consequences of their actions, such as the punishment for students who break the rules will be given a useful punishment for them, such as memorization and others. Pak Kyai and Bu Nyai, ustadz and ustadzah, and teachers in the boarding school also act as good role models for the students, helping to shape their character by setting a good example.

In conclusion Islamic Boarding School have an important role in shaping children's character. By providing a solid foundation in religion, developing independence, strengthening social engagement, and instilling moral values, the boarding school helps children to become responsible, good individuals who are ready to face whatever life throws at them in the future. Moreover, after leaving the Boarding School they are mature in knowledge and behavior to live in the community. This is a valuable investment for a better future for future generations.