THE DYNAMICS OF EDUCATION AT PONDOK PESANTREN MATHOLI'UL ANWAR LAMONGAN (1914–2026): FROM THE CLASSICAL PERIOD TOWARDS MODERN DIGITALIZATION

Abstract

Pondok Pesantren Matholi'ul Anwar (PPMA), established on January 18, 1914 in Lamongan, East Java, is one of the oldest Islamic educational institutions in Indonesia, having operated for more than a century. This study aims to analyze the educational dynamics of PPMA from 1914 to 2026, focusing on changes in systems, methods, curriculum, and governance across three periods: classical (1914–1960s), middle (1970s–1990s), and modern (2000–2026). The research employs a qualitative method with an oral history approach, based on in-depth interviews with a key informant, Gus Bika Ittakalna Hammada (Son of the Caretaker, successor generation), supported by documentary studies. The findings reveal that in the classical period, education was centered in prayer houses (surau) using sorogan and bandongan methods, with a 100% classical Islamic scripture (kitab kuning) curriculum, dozens of students, and challenges of limited facilities. The middle period was characterized by a transition to formal madrasas (MI, MTs, MA), a shift to classical teaching methods, integration of 30% general knowledge, and official affiliation with NU. In the modern period, PPMA has adopted digital learning (LCD, e-learning, computer-based exams), developed excellence programs (30-juz Qur'an memorization, foreign languages), achieved A accreditation, and established a cooperative business unit (Koperasi Matholi'ul Anwar). The pesantren firmly prohibits mobile phones but allows laptops for learning purposes. The greatest current challenge is preserving the tradition of classical Islamic scripture study amidst the dominance of gadgets. This study concludes that PPMA has successfully transformed into a modern educational institution without losing its salaf identity, with adaptive leadership across generations being the key to its success.