STUDYING THE RMBI MADRASAH MODEL (INTERNATIONAL STANDARD PILOT MADRASAH)
By Sintia Azizah / 12220010177 / Class E / Semester IV / MPI Student / Undergraduate / UIN Bandung
The Madrasah Rintisan Bertaraf Internasional (MRSBI), or International Standard Pilot Madrasah, is a strategic initiative within Indonesia's Islamic education system developed in response to the challenges of globalization and international competition. These madrasahs are Islamic educational institutions that not only meet the National Education Standards (SNP) but are also enriched with international benchmarks. The goal is to produce graduates who are excellent, adaptive, and globally competitive. MRSBI aims to enhance the quality of Islamic education through curriculum development, improved teacher competencies, and the provision of modern facilities and infrastructure.
This paper explores the MRSBI model by focusing on four interconnected areas: the foundational concept of RSBI madrasahs, the significance of establishing such institutions, the standards for their implementation, and the strategies for effective management.
First, The foundational concept of RSBI madrasahs; despite the removal of the term from official policy, remains highly relevant as a framework for integrated quality improvement in Islamic education in Indonesia. These madrasahs are defined as Islamic educational institutions that surpass national education standards by adopting best practices from internationally recognized institutions---especially those from OECD member countries---while maintaining Islamic values and cultural identity. The aim is to accelerate academic excellence in line with OECD benchmarks, prepare students with global competencies such as English proficiency and digital literacy, strengthen Islamic-nationalist character, and cultivate a culture of innovation through strategic partnerships. RSBI madrasahs are distinguished by the integration of Islamic values and Indonesian cultural traditions, the use of Bahasa Indonesia as the main academic language, life-skills education rooted in local wisdom, and a strong emphasis on religious moderation and tolerance. Ultimately, RSBI madrasahs aspire to produce graduates who are not only devout and globally competitive but also deeply rooted in national identity and Islamic values.
Second, The importance of RSBI madrasahs can be understood through multiple interrelated dimensions; philosophical, theological, sociological, anthropological, and economic. Philosophically, these institutions aim to develop well-rounded individuals, emphasizing more than just knowledge transfer. They incorporate progressive educational models that nurture critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, aligned with Islamic concepts of ta'dib and tarbiyah, which seek to create knowledgeable and ethical human beings. Theologically, RSBI madrasahs fulfill the Islamic obligation of seeking knowledge as a form of worship (fardhu kifayah), as emphasized in Surah Al-Mujadilah: 11 and Hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW). They are envisioned as strongholds of faith and centers of excellence in an era of digital disruption. Sociologically, these institutions act as agents of social transformation by promoting moderate Islam, tolerance, and a strong work ethic, while enabling students to achieve upward social mobility. From an anthropological perspective, RSBI madrasahs represent a cultural adaptation that blends local Islamic traditions with global values, creating a hybrid identity that preserves heritage while embracing modern practices. Economically, they play a vital role in developing high-quality human resources by increasing employability, fostering entrepreneurship, and contributing to national economic growth through investment in quality education.
Third is guided by rigorous standardization that exceeds the National Education Standards and aligns with international benchmarks. In terms of curriculum and instruction, these institutions combine the national curriculum with international programs such as Cambridge or the International Baccalaureate (IB). Teaching methodologies include innovative approaches like problem-based learning and project-based learning, alongside the integration of digital technologies to meet 21st-century literacy demands. Student admission is based on a competitive selection process to ensure cognitive readiness and strong character, with emphasis on global literacy, foreign language proficiency, and spiritual development. Teachers and staff are required to possess high qualifications, bilingual abilities, and strong digital competencies, supported by ongoing professional development programs. Facilities and infrastructure are modern and digitally integrated, including smart classrooms, fully equipped laboratories, and high-speed internet, all managed through infrastructure management systems (SIM-SARPRAS). Funding is sourced transparently from a combination of government support, parental contributions, and external partnerships, ensuring that quality programs are sustained without burdening students. Institutional management adheres to the principles of good governance, transparency, and accountability, supported by internal and external evaluations as well as the implementation of an Internal Quality Assurance System (SPMI) to ensure continuous improvement.
Fourth: Management strategies for RSBI madrasahs;Â focus on enhancing global educational standards through adaptive curricula that incorporate both national and international elements. These strategies are reinforced by innovative teaching methods, the development of skilled and bilingual educators with strong technological capabilities, the provision of modern facilities, and efficient financial management. A positive school culture and ongoing evaluation efforts ensure consistent improvement in educational quality and outcomes.
In conclusion, although the RSBI designation has been officially discontinued, the concept remains crucial in the context of Islamic education. It represents an effort to exceed national standards through the adoption of global best practices, while maintaining strong Islamic values and local cultural heritage. The importance of the RSBI model is grounded in philosophical, theological, sociological, anthropological, and economic dimensions. Its implementation relies on enriched international curricula, innovative learning methods, qualified human resources, modern infrastructure, transparent governance, and continuous quality assurance. The management strategies applied are aimed at producing graduates who are globally competent and morally grounded.
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This paper is summarized from the course material "Islamic Education Management International -- Part 14: The RSBI Model (International Standard Pilot Madrasah)."
Course Lecturer: Prof. Dr. H. A. Rusdiana, M.M.
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