Governance Transformation and Contestation in Private Islamic Higher Education Institutions amid Institutional Conflict

Edi Putra Jaya; Bustian; Sri Sudewi Aria; Taufik

doi:10.21580/jawda.v7i2.2026.31402

Authors

Edi Putra Jaya Institut Agama Islam Negeri Kerinci, Indonesia
Bustian Institut Agama Islam Negeri Kerinci, Indonesia
Sri Sudewi Aria Institut Agama Islam Negeri Kerinci, Indonesia
Taufik Institut Agama Islam Negeri Kerinci, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21580/jawda.v7i2.2026.31402

Keywords:

Governance Transformation; Governance Contestation; Private Islamic Higher Education Institutions; Institutional Conflict; Islamic Governance.

Abstract

Governance conflicts in Private Islamic Higher Education Institutions (PIHEI) involve disputes over authority, institutional legitimacy, decision-making, and accountability between foundations and institutional leadership. Although there has been research on the governance of private higher education in the past, attention has been very limited, and only attention has been paid to the resolution of authority conflicts through Islamic values-based mechanisms. This study aims to develop an Islamic governance model to resolve governance conflicts in Private Islamic Higher Education Institutions (PIHEI). A qualitative multi-case study was conducted at two PIHEIs in Jambi Province, Indonesia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and document analysis with 24 participants, including foundation administrators, institutional leaders, senate members, lecturers, and administrative staff. In case and cross-case analysis, repetition patterns were identified, and an informed model was developed. The findings suggest that the main conflict arises from the gap between formal governance arrangements and the practical exercise of authority. Four dimensions underlie conflict resolution: clear differentiation of authority, shura-based participatory governance, Islamic ethical values ('adl, amanah, and islah), and institutionalized conflict resolution mechanisms. Resolution requires integrating formal structures, participation, and the legitimacy of Islamic ethics. This model operationalizes Islamic values in managing authority, accountability, and institutional reconciliation.

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