CHARISM, CREDIBILITY, AND CREATIVITY: AN ANALYSIS OF THE LEADERSHIP STYLE OF KIAI-RECTOR IN BUILDING AN INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM IN ISLAMIC BOARDING SCHOOLS

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the role of charisma, credibility, and creativity in the leadership style of Kiai-Rectors in building an innovation ecosystem in Islamic boarding school universities. Using a qualitative case study approach, the study was conducted at KH. Mukhtar Syafaat University, Blokagung, Banyuwangi. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and documentation study, with the main informants being university leaders and administrators, lecturers, and students as supporting informants. Data analysis followed Miles and Huberman's interactive model, namely reduction, presentation, and drawing conclusions from the data, while data validity was ensured through triangulation of sources, methods, and observers. The results of the study show that the charisma of the Kiai-Rector becomes social-intellectual capital that strengthens leadership legitimacy. Hybrid credibility integrates traditional and intellectual authority to create inclusive leadership. Creativity and collaboration are adaptive strategies for dealing with digital disruption through curriculum innovation and digital teaching media, such as multimedia and broadcasting campus services for producing broadcast programs, short films, campus event documentation, and other digital content. In addition, international collaboration in research and community service is strengthened by strengthening networks between researchers in different countries. This research contributes to enriching the concept of modern Islamic boarding school leadership by emphasizing that the charismatic, credible, and creative leadership style of the Kiai-Rector can serve as a transformative model for Islamic higher education institutions in the digital era.