Peran pesantren dalam membentuk karakter keislaman generasi muda di era digital

Abstract

Pesantren is an Islamic educational institution that has a significant role in shaping the Islamic character of young people. In the midst of rapid technological and digital development, pesantren is confronted with increasingly complex challenges, especially those related to shifts in mindset, instant lifestyles, and the massive flow of information that influences how adolescents understand religion and conduct their daily lives. This study aims to explain the role of pesantren in developing the Islamic character of younger generations and to identify strategies that enable pesantren to remain relevant amidst social transformation. The study applies a qualitative approach using a literature review method by examining various scholarly references concerning pesantren, Islamic education, character building, and digital-era challenges. The findings reveal that pesantren functions not merely as a place for learning religious sciences, but also as an environment for cultivating morality, discipline, independence, responsibility, and respect toward teachers and others. Furthermore, the digital era encourages pesantren to strengthen digital literacy so that students are able to utilize technology wisely, critically, and responsibly. Therefore, pesantren continues to be a relevant institution in preserving the Islamic identity of young generations while adapting to the demands of modern society.