Public Relations Strategy in Creating the Image of Islamic Boarding School

Abstract

Pesantren (Islamic boarding school) is the basis of Islamic education in Indonesia. Islamic boarding school is also the first and oldest Islamic educational institution in Indonesia, which continues to develop according to the times. In addition, an Islamic boarding school is an educational institution with its characteristics compared to other educational institutions. In this case, an Islamic boarding school is inseparable from the role of the public. Thus, public relations in an organizational institution has a crucial role, especially in education. To achieve the goals of Islamic educational institutions effectively and efficiently, a remarkably close relationship between educational institutions and the public is needed to meet the public needs and to build the image of the Islamic boarding school. The research method used was descriptive qualitative research, with six respondents. The data were then analyzed, and their validity was checked using triangulation techniques at Islamic boarding schools in Bantul Regency. The study results revealed that 1) public relations played a vital role in improving the image of Islamic boarding schools in Bantul Regency; 2) The public relations strategy in improving the image of Islamic boarding schools in Bantul Regency was through several factors, including strong support from the guardians of students and foundations, the commitment of Islamic boarding school in carrying out programs to be trusted by the public, and cooperating with educational unit institutions outside.