Islamic Educational Epistemology in the Era of Society 5.0: Strategies of Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya in Shaping Islamic Character

Abstract

This article examines the strategies employed by Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya in shaping Islamic character in the era of Society 5.0 through the perspective of Islamic educational epistemology. The study is motivated by the rapid development of technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and big data, which have not only transformed patterns of human interaction but also generated challenges related to dehumanization and crises of meaning. The purpose of this study is to analyze how Islamic educational epistemology rooted in the integration of revelation, reason, sensory experience, and intuition can be implemented within character education strategies in higher education institutions. This research employs a qualitative approach using a case study method, with data collected through indepth interviews, observations, and documentation analysis. The findings indicate that Universitas Muhammadiyah Surabaya adopts a holistic strategy by integrating Islamic values into the curriculum, transforming the role of lecturers into exemplary mentors, and creating a synergistic campus ecosystem that harmonizes academic activities with religious practices. These strategies have proven effective in shaping students’ Islamic character, as reflected in integrity (shiddiq), responsibility (amanah), exemplary conduct, and social contribution (islah alummah). The study concludes that the Islamic epistemological approach offers an effective strategic solution to address the challenges of Society 5.0 and can serve as a model for other Islamic higher education institutions in harmonizing technological advancement with moral and spiritual resilience.