Constructing Differentiation Strategy through Flagship Programmes to Build the Competitive Advantage of Islamic Educational Institutions

Abstract

This study aims to analyse and describe the construction of differentiation strategies in building competitive advantage at two secondary education institutions, namely Asy-Syukriyyah Integrated Islamic High School in Tangerang and Ibadurrahman Plus High School in Tangerang. This study employs a qualitative approach using a multi-site study. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with school principals and management, participatory observation, and document analysis. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. The results of the study indicate that both schools construct their strategies through different approaches. Asy-Syukriyyah Integrated Islamic Senior High School constructs its competitive advantage through a future-oriented approach and academic service innovation (the Career Proposal programme, Smart Journey, and Mid-term Project Assessment). Meanwhile, Ibadurrahman Plus Senior High School constructed its competitive advantage through the strengthening of classical Islamic literacy traditions and environmental conditioning (the Qiroatul Kutub programme, a bilingual environment, and teaching practices). The construction of effective differentiation strategies is highly dependent on management’s ability to identify the uniqueness of internal resources and transform them into flagship programmes that address specific market needs. The implications of this research emphasise the importance of curriculum innovation and exemplary strategic leadership in winning the market.