THE CHARACTER OF LOVE FOR THE HOMELAND IN THE TEACHINGS OF KI AGENG SURYOMENTARAM FOR STUDENTS OF SMP NEGERI 11 MADIUN

Abstract

This study explores the implementation of the character of love for the homeland based on the teachings of Ki Ageng Suryomentaram among students of SMP Negeri 11 Madiun. The research employed a qualitative descriptive approach to obtain an in-depth understanding of how patriotic values derived from Ki Ageng Suryomentaram's philosophy are internalized through educational practices. Data were collected through classroom observations, semi-structured interviews with teachers and students, and document analysis. The credibility of the findings was ensured using source and method triangulation, while data were analyzed through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing. The findings indicate that the character of love for the homeland is developed through the integration of local wisdom into classroom instruction, school culture, and extracurricular activities. Teachers play a significant role as moral role models by encouraging discipline, responsibility, respect for national symbols, appreciation of local culture, and active participation in community life. The philosophy of rumangsa melu handarbeni negara (feeling a sense of ownership toward the nation) emerged as the central value that encourages students to perceive patriotism as responsibility rather than merely symbolic nationalism. These findings demonstrate that Ki Ageng Suryomentaram's teachings remain highly relevant to contemporary character education because they promote civic responsibility, moral awareness, cultural identity, and national unity. Integrating indigenous philosophical values into school-based character education provides an effective strategy for strengthening students' patriotism while preserving Indonesian cultural heritage in the era of globalization.