Peran Guru Pendidikan Agama Islam dalam Pembentukan Akhlak Peserta Didik di Sekolah Menengah Pertama

Abstract

This study aims to thoroughly examine the role of Islamic Religious Education (PAI) teachers in shaping students' morals and character at SMP Negeri 1 Gondang, Mojokerto Regency. The background of this research arises from a contradiction observed in the field, where students are involved in religious programs such as congregational Friday prayers, communal supplications, and the implementation of the 3S (smile, greeting, salutation) culture, yet still exhibit negative behaviors like brawling, alcohol consumption, and inappropriate conduct. Employing a qualitative descriptive approach, data collection methods include direct observation, interviews with PAI teachers and students, as well as documentation. In this study, the primary data sources are the results of direct observations conducted by the researcher and the results of interviews with informants, namely Islamic religious education teachers and students at SMPN 1 Gondang. The findings indicate that PAI teachers hold a vital role not only as religious educators but also as moral exemplars, motivators, and mentors in students’ daily life. They actively guide students in practicing religious values through both instruction and personal example. Nonetheless, several challenges hinder the optimal implementation of moral education, including low student moral awareness, external environmental influences, limited instructional time, and the lack of cooperation between school and parents. Hence, building students’ character and morals requires a holistic approach and strong collaboration between educators, families, and the broader school community.