PENGUATAN PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM MELALUI PENDAMPINGAN KEAGAMAAN DAN PEMBINAAN KARAKTER ANAK DI DESA KARANG TENGAH KECAMATAN SERBA JADI KABUPATEN SERDANG BEDAGAI

Abstract

This study aims to describe the forms of religious mentoring, the implementation of children's character development, and the supporting factors, inhibiting factors, and impacts on strengthening Islamic Religious Education (PAI) in Karang Tengah Village, Serba Jadi Subdistrict, Serdang Bedagai Regency. This study employed a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data were collected through participatory observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies involving the village head and village officials, religious leaders, parents, and children participating in the mentoring activities, who were selected using purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using the interactive model of Miles and Huberman (1994), consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing, with data credibility maintained through source and method triangulation. The findings show that religious mentoring is carried out through Qur'anic learning centers (TPQ), guidance in religious practices, and children's recitation and yasin gatherings, which collectively reinforce the implementation of PAI outside the formal education pathway. Children's character development is carried out through role modeling, habituation, advice, and exemplary stories, supported by synergy between parents and community and religious leaders. Supporting factors include community participation, the availability of religious facilities, and a strong culture of mutual cooperation, while inhibiting factors include the limited number of qualified TPQ instructors and the influence of gadget use. This religious mentoring has a positive impact on improving children's religious discipline, manners, and social awareness, although the impact is not yet evenly distributed and is strongly influenced by the consistency of children's participation. This study recommends strengthening the synergy between families, religious leaders, and the village government to sustain the strengthening of PAI and children's character development.