Strengthening Islamic Education Management Through Principal Leadership: A Study of Quality Improvement in Madrasah

Abstract

This study examines the role of principal leadership in strengthening Islamic education management to improve the quality of madrasah education. The quality of Islamic educational institutions depends not only on curriculum adequacy but also on the effectiveness of managerial and leadership processes. Using a qualitative descriptive research approach with data collected through interviews, observation, and documentation at three madrasah in Lampung Province, this study analyzes how principal leadership styles—particularly transformational and instructional leadership—correlate with improvements in educational management functions including planning, organizing, actuating, and controlling (POAC). Findings reveal that principals who apply transformational leadership significantly improve teacher performance, institutional discipline, and academic achievement. Key factors identified include clear vision-setting, democratic decision-making, and consistent supervision. The study concludes that effective Islamic education management requires an integration of spiritual values with modern managerial competencies, and that principal professional development programs must be prioritized as a strategic policy in improving madrasah quality in Indonesia.

Keywords: Islamic education management, principal leadership, madrasah quality, transformational leadership, educational improvement