Strategic Leadership of Madrasah Principals in Enhancing Student Quality: A SWOT-Based Assessment at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 1 Pekanbaru

Abstract

Increasing public trust in Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 1 Pekanbaru, reflected in rising student enrollment, sustained academic and non-academic achievements, and expanding flagship programs, highlights the importance of strategic leadership in improving student quality. However, previous studies have predominantly examined educational leadership in relation to school effectiveness, teacher performance, or organizational management, while limited attention has been given to how strategic leadership is formulated, implemented, and evaluated through a SWOT-based approach to improve student quality in public madrasahs. This study therefore aims to analyze the formulation, implementation, and evaluation of the principal’s strategies for improving student quality based on SWOT analysis at Madrasah Aliyah Negeri 1 Pekanbaru. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed using interviews, observations, and document analysis, with data analyzed through the interactive model of Miles, Huberman, and Saldaña. The findings indicate that strategic formulation was conducted systematically through institutional evaluation and SWOT analysis, while implementation was supported by collaborative leadership, teacher professional development, and differentiated academic and non-academic programs. Continuous evaluation focused on student achievement, graduate transition to higher education, and character development as indicators of educational quality improvement. The novelty of this study lies in demonstrating how SWOT-based strategic leadership integrates evidence-based planning, participatory management, and continuous evaluation to strengthen student quality within the context of Islamic secondary education. These findings provide practical implications for madrasah leaders by emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making, collaborative governance, and sustainable quality assurance in improving student outcomes