URGENSI PENDIDIKAN AGAMA ISLAM DALAM MENCEGAH RADIKALISME DI KALANGAN MAHASISWA STIKES ABDI PERSADA BANJARMASIN

Abstract

Radicalism among university students has increasingly become a major concern, particularly due to the massive development of digital information and the widespread accessibility of transnational ideologies. Islamic Religious Education (IRE) plays a strategic role as a preventive shield in shaping moderate, inclusive, and civilized religious understanding. This study aims to describe the significance of IRE in preventing radicalism among students at STIKES Abdi Persada Banjarmasin through a descriptive qualitative approach. Data were collected through interviews, observation, and document analysis in the campus environment. The findings indicate that IRE plays a crucial role through three strategies: (1) strengthening religious moderation-based learning materials; (2) optimizing spiritual development through religious activities; and (3) utilizing digital media to disseminate wasathiyah Islamic values. These implementations help students develop comprehensive religious understanding, avoid extremist ideologies, strengthen humanistic character, and foster critical awareness toward the flow of information. IRE lecturers act as guides (murabbi), educators (‘alim), and role models (uswah hasanah) in shaping students’ rational thinking and moderate behavior. This study confirms that IRE is essential in preventing the spread of radicalism, particularly in health-based universities, where professionalism and humanitarian ethics are crucial.