Transformative Islamic Education in Pesantren: An Ecotheological Approach to Adolescent Reproductive Health Governance

Ummi Bariroh; Zulham Qudsi Farizal Alam; Lutfi Agus Salim; Ratna Dwi Wulandari

Authors

Ummi Bariroh Universitas Airlangga
Zulham Qudsi Farizal Alam Universitas Islam Negeri Sunan Kudus
Lutfi Agus Salim Universitas Airlangga
Ratna Dwi Wulandari Universitas Airlangga

Keywords:

Transformative Islamic Education, pesantren, ecotheology, adolescent reproductive health, TPB

Abstract

Background: Adolescent reproductive health remains a persistent public-health and educational challenge where cultural and religious norms constrain open dialogue. In Muslim-majority settings, Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) are primary moral communities that shape youth values, knowledge, and behavior.

Aims: This study explores transformative Islamic education in pesantren through an ecotheological lens, focusing on adolescent reproductive health governance. It integrates Islamic theological principles with educational practices to address the reproductive health challenges faced by santri.

Methods: A convergent parallel mixed-methods design was applied in three pesantren in Central Java representing traditional, modern, and semi-modern orientations. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interviews with kyai, ustadzah, and health facilitators, while quantitative data were obtained from 150 santri using a Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB)-based survey.

Results: Reproductive health is rarely formalized in pesantren curricula, yet informal knowledge transmission through religious teachers and peer networks plays a crucial role. Subjective norms were the strongest predictor of intention (β = .46), followed by attitudes (β = .29) and perceived behavioral control (β = .18). Integrating ecotheological values such as khalifah (stewardship), amanah (trust), and maslahah (public benefit) with TPB constructs shows that religious legitimacy can strengthen adolescents’ health intentions and behaviors.

Conclusions: The study proposes the Islamic Eco-Behavioral Model for Reproductive Health (IEBMRH), which emphasizes curriculum integration, educator capacity building, and faith-sensitive digital platforms. The model positions pesantren as transformative educational institutions that align theological values with contemporary health needs, advancing culturally congruent and ethically grounded reproductive health governance.

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