Human Resource Management Based on Cadre Development and Academic Development to Support the Quality of the ‘Kitab Kuning’ Learning Process in Islamic Boarding Schools

The teaching of classical Islamic texts (kitab kuning) in Islamic boarding schools requires teachers (ustadz) who have a thorough grasp of the texts’ content and are able to explain them to the students (santri). This study aims to analyse how the management of teachers supports the quality of the teaching process for classical Islamic texts at the API ASRI 2 Islamic Boarding School in Bandongan, Magelang. The study employs a qualitative approach using a case study design. Data from interviews with the boarding school’s elders, the Qori’in committee, a teacher, and three students were analysed through pattern matching and the construction of explanations. The results of the study indicate that the number of classes forms the basis for estimating teaching staff requirements, whilst the type of text serves as a reference for mapping the necessary expertise. The boarding school prioritises senior alumni based on observations of their character, moral conduct and depth of knowledge whilst they were students. Through textbook deliberations, teachers harmonise their understanding of the material and exchange teaching methods. Monthly evaluations cover the teachers’ performance and the students’ learning outcomes. This research highlights two key roles played by the management of teachers in supporting the quality of the learning process. The recruitment of alumni helps the pesantren provide teachers who are familiar with its scholarly traditions, whilst the text-based discussions provide a space for teachers to develop their methods of explaining the text’s content to students.