The Role of the Aisyiyah Organisation in the Ponjong Branch in Gender Equality in the Field of Islamic Education for Women

Abstract

This study aims to reveal the role of the ‘Aisyiyah Ponjong Branch organisation in promoting women’s emancipation in the field of Islamic education. The Muhammadiyah women’s organisation, ‘Aisyiyah, consistently empowers women through various educational, social, economic, and da’wah programs. This study uses a qualitative-descriptive approach with observation, interviews, and documentation of the administrators of the Ponjong Branch of ‘Aisyiyah. The qualitative-descriptive approach with observation, interviews, and documentation of the administrators of the Ponjong Branch of ‘Aisyiyah was used as the research data collection technique. The results of the study show that ‘Aisyiyah Ponjong actively manages early childhood education institutions, provides teacher training, and is involved in health, legal, and economic counselling. In addition, they also carry out digital-based da’wah and collaborate with other organisations to expand their influence. The obstacles include limited time and funds, as well as low community participation in da’wah activities. However, creative solutions such as flexible working hours agreed upon by management, the use of technology for da’wah, and the organisation’s economic independence have been implemented to overcome these obstacles. These efforts have made the Ponjong Branch of ‘Aisyiyah a centre of significant change in creating gender equality through Islamic education.