A 2026 study by Nurul Mursida Siregar and Icol Dianto of Universitas Islam Negeri Syekh Ali Hasan Ahmad Addary highlights the vital role schools play in strengthening religious tolerance and intercultural communication among junior high students. Published in the International Journal of Global Sustainable Research, the research underscores how structured character education can help students thrive in diverse societies and reduce the risk of social conflict.
The findings matter as Indonesia continues to navigate its multicultural identity. By fostering empathy, respectful dialogue, and inclusive school environments, educators can prepare students to live harmoniously across religious and cultural differences—an increasingly important goal in the digital era.
Background: Diversity as Both Strength and Challenge
Indonesia is widely recognized as one of the world’s most diverse nations, with multiple religions, ethnic groups, and languages shaping daily life. While this diversity is considered a national asset, it can also create friction if not supported by strong character education.
SMP Negeri 1 Sibabangun, a junior high school situated within a community of varied religious and cultural backgrounds, provides a relevant setting for examining how tolerance is cultivated. Early adolescence is a formative stage in which students begin defining their identities and developing social awareness. Without guidance, differences may lead to stereotypes or exclusion. With the right support, however, diversity becomes a powerful learning resource.
Siregar and Dianto position schools as strategic institutions capable of instilling democratic values, mutual respect, and effective communication skills—qualities essential for social cohesion.
Methodology in Brief
The researchers used a literature review approach, analyzing academic books, peer-reviewed journals, policy documents, and recent scholarly works related to character education, religious tolerance, and intercultural communication.
Key methodological elements included:
- Research design: Literature review without direct field data collection
- Data sources: National and international academic publications from the past decade
- Analytical approach: Descriptive, comparative, and argumentative synthesis to identify patterns and best practices
This method enabled the authors to build a comprehensive conceptual framework for understanding how tolerance education can be implemented in junior secondary schools.
Key Findings
The study identifies several major insights into how schools can strengthen students’ tolerant character.
Religious Tolerance Is a Foundational Character Value
- Tolerance extends beyond accepting differences; it includes respecting religious practices and avoiding discrimination.
- Schools act as “miniature societies” where students learn to coexist peacefully.
- Planned character reinforcement prevents prejudice and social segregation.
Intercultural Communication Builds Mutual Understanding
- Effective communication reduces stereotypes and encourages empathy.
- Both verbal dialogue and nonverbal behavior—such as respectful gestures—shape a climate of inclusion.
- Collaborative classroom activities help students adapt to differing perspectives.
Teachers Are Central Role Models
- Students often mirror teachers’ attitudes toward diversity.
- Fairness, openness, and non-discrimination significantly influence classroom culture.
Integration Works Better Than Standalone Lessons
- Tolerance should be embedded across subjects rather than taught separately.
- Linking academic material with humanitarian values increases awareness of diversity.
Inclusive School Culture Reinforces Character
- Activities such as cross-cultural group work, religious holiday recognition, and dialogue-based conflict resolution support social harmony.
- Partnerships with parents and communities strengthen consistency between school and home values.
Challenges Identified by the Study
Despite its importance, tolerance education faces several obstacles:
- Family value differences may expose students to exclusive viewpoints.
- Limited communication skills can lead to misunderstandings.
- Institutional constraints, including crowded curricula and insufficient teacher training, hinder systematic implementation.
- Digital media exposure increases the spread of intolerance narratives and hate speech.
These challenges highlight the need for adaptive strategies and stronger policy support within schools.
Real-World Implications
The research suggests that strengthening religious tolerance and intercultural communication produces measurable educational and social benefits.
For students:
Improved empathy, conflict management skills, teamwork, and social intelligence.
For schools:
Lower conflict levels and healthier interpersonal relationships contribute to a safer learning environment.
For society:
Students raised in tolerant settings are more likely to become democratic citizens who respect pluralism and reject violence.
The authors argue that tolerance education should be viewed as a long-term investment in national unity.
Academic Insight
Siregar and Dianto emphasize the broader educational responsibility of schools:
Scholars from Universitas Islam Negeri Syekh Ali Hasan Ahmad Addary explain that religious tolerance must be practiced through understanding, habituation, exemplary behavior, and ethical communication so students can internalize respect for diversity in everyday life.
This perspective reinforces the idea that tolerance is not merely theoretical but must be lived through daily interactions.
Author Profiles
Nurul Mursida Siregar, M.Pd. — Universitas Islam Negeri Syekh Ali Hasan Ahmad Addary. A researcher in character education and multicultural learning with a focus on fostering inclusive school environments.
Icol Dianto, M.Pd. — Universitas Islam Negeri Syekh Ali Hasan Ahmad Addary. Specializes in educational communication and values-based pedagogy, particularly in diverse educational settings.
Source
Title: Strengthening the Character of Religious Tolerance and Intercultural Communication at SMP Negeri 1 Sibabangun
Journal: International Journal of Global Sustainable Research (IJGSR)
Year: 2026
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59890/ijgsr.v4i1.141
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