Model of RMBI Madrasah Pioneering International Standard Islamic Schools

By: Riska Ristiana (1222010161)
(Student of UIN Sunan Gunung Djati Bandung, Department of Islamic Education Management / Undergraduate Program in International Islamic Education Management)

RMBI Madrasah, or Rintisan Madrasah Bertaraf Internasional (Pioneering International Standard Islamic School), is a significant innovation in the development of Islamic education in Indonesia. This model serves as a quality enhancement initiative by integrating the National Education Standards (SNP) with international standards. The main goal of this madrasah model is to produce pious graduates who are academically excellent and globally competitive, while preserving cultural roots and Islamic values.

The core concept of RMBI Madrasah emphasizes fulfilling all eight National Education Standards, which are then enriched with best practices from OECD member countries. This includes implementing a bilingual curriculum, adopting international assessments such as the Cambridge IGCSE, and utilizing information and communication technology (ICT) in management. Although the RSBI (International Standard School) nomenclature was legally abolished, many madrasahs continue to apply its principles due to their effectiveness in accelerating education quality. The reinforcement of Islamic values remains a central element throughout the internationalization process.

The importance of RMBI Madrasah can be examined from various perspectives. Philosophically, it merges Islamic educational ideals (ta'db and tarbiyah) with the vision of educational globalization. Theologically, it fulfills the religious mandate to cultivate knowledgeable and moral individuals. Sociologically, it strengthens social cohesion within a pluralistic society. Anthropologically, it provides a space for the interaction between local and global cultures. Economically, it serves as a strategic investment in developing high-quality human resources that support national development.

Standardization in the implementation of RMBI Madrasah includes a globally competent curriculum, innovative learning methods, selective student recruitment, and teacher capacity building. 21st-century learning infrastructure such as science laboratories, digital libraries, and online learning systems is essential. Funding sources include the government, communities, and strategic partnerships. The management system emphasizes transparency, accountability, and continuous improvement through both internal and external evaluations.

The management strategy of RMBI Madrasah involves developing a curriculum that is adaptive and contextual, applying project-based and digital teaching methods, enhancing teacher quality through international training, and fostering an academic culture grounded in Islamic and national values. The school culture emphasizes tolerance, hard work, and leadership. Quality assurance is carried out regularly through both national and international assessments to ensure the madrasah remains responsive to global changes.

RMBI Madrasah is more than just an educational institution; it is a center for civilizational transformation. It stands as evidence that Islamic education can effectively respond to global challenges through value-based, contextual, and sustainable solutions. Its existence represents a harmonious integration of knowledge, faith, and ethics in preparing Indonesia's future generation to be competent, moderate, and globally competitive.

Source: This article is adapted from the Teaching Module International Islamic Education Management, Part 14, on the topic of Model Madrasah RMBI: Pioneering International Standard Islamic Schools. Lecturer: Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana, MM.