STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, an educational approach that focuses on developing skills in scientific, technological, engineering, and mathematical disciplines. The main goal of STEM is to cultivate individuals capable of thinking critically, analytically, and creatively in addressing global challenges and adapting to the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Emphasizing STEM is crucial as these fields form the backbone of innovation and progress across various sectors, from healthcare to energy and the environment. In today’s fast-evolving digital age, STEM literacy and competence are more vital than ever.
Traditionally, STEM education has been more prevalent at the tertiary level, where students are introduced to scientific and empirical thinking methods. At universities, students are encouraged to engage in research, conduct experiments, and analyze data to solve real-world problems. This approach trains students to seek evidence-based solutions, a skill essential for navigating the increasingly complex and dynamic professional world. In recent years, however, STEM has also been incorporated into early education, from preschool through primary and secondary levels.
Over the past few decades, Islamic education systems have evolved to meet the demands of a more complex world. Whereas Islamic education once focused predominantly on religious disciplines such as fardhu ‘ain, fiqh, and tafsir, many Islamic educational institutions have now begun integrating empirical sciences—like mathematics, biology, and physics—into their curricula. This shift aims to produce graduates who are not only well-versed in religious knowledge but also equipped with the skills and understanding needed to contribute meaningfully to science and technology.
At its core, Islam encourages the pursuit of knowledge, including science and technology. Numerous Quranic verses urge humanity to reflect, observe, and understand the natural world as signs of God’s greatness. For example, in Surah Al-Mulk (67:15), Allah commands humanity to “travel throughout the land and seek His provision,” highlighting Islam’s emphasis on knowledge and innovation. In this way, STEM aligns seamlessly with Islamic teachings, which recognize the importance of intellectual exploration and scientific advancement.
By integrating STEM into Islamic education, students are provided with a more holistic understanding of the world. Blending religious and modern scientific knowledge allows students to view the universe through a comprehensive lens. For instance, concepts from mathematics or natural sciences can be connected to Quranic verses about the cosmos and creation, cultivating both awe for God’s majesty and curiosity for scientific exploration.
STEM also fosters intuitive and rational reasoning, leading to an intellectual and academic understanding of religion that is both grounded in textual sources and enriched by rational inquiry. This dual approach strengthens religious comprehension and equips students to address contemporary challenges with well-reasoned perspectives.
Several modern Islamic educational institutions in Indonesia have embraced this integrative approach. Early examples include Sumatera Thawalib and Darulfunun, founded in the 1920s. These institutions offered both religious and secular education, including foreign languages and sciences, marking the beginning of Islamic education reform in Indonesia.
Other notable pioneers include Pondok Modern Darussalam Gontor and schools affiliated with Muhammadiyah and Nahdlatul Ulama. Gontor uses Arabic and English as mediums of instruction and includes both social and natural sciences in its curriculum. This approach produces graduates who possess a deep understanding of religion as well as practical skills suited to the modern world. Muhammadiyah is known for its organized administration, while Nahdlatul Ulama emphasizes classical Islamic texts presented through contemporary methods.
More recently, the emergence of science-and-technology-oriented Islamic schools has enriched Indonesia’s Islamic education landscape. A prime example is Sekolah Menengah Insan Cendekia, founded by B.J. Habibie. The school merges religious studies with science education using a STEM-like approach, making it one of the nation’s top institutions in science and technology education grounded in Islamic values. Insan Cendekia aims to cultivate a generation of scholars who excel in science without compromising their religious identity.
The integration of STEM in Islamic education prepares students to thrive in a constantly evolving world. In such schools, students acquire not only academic but also practical skills, learning how technology can solve social, economic, and environmental problems, guided by Islamic values that advocate progress and innovation for the collective good.
STEM education also encourages critical and innovative thinking. Through observation, experimentation, and analysis, students are taught not just to receive knowledge passively but to question and explore the subjects they study. This cultivates independent and adaptive thinking, essential qualities for success in today’s globalized world.
At the formal level, such as in madrasahs, STEM offers opportunities for students to blend religious and scientific thinking. One notable example is the integration of Quran memorization (tahfiz) with science learning, where students not only memorize the holy text but also interpret it through the lens of modern science. This approach deepens students’ appreciation of the Quran while expanding their intellectual horizons.
Modern Islamic educational institutions that embrace technology are also preparing students for global competition. The use of science labs, information technology, and digital learning tools equips students with the latest competencies. This not only enhances their academic potential but also strengthens their faith, as science is viewed as a path to understanding the greatness of the Creator.
By embedding STEM into Islamic education, a significant mindset shift occurs—one that contributes to the development of excellent human capital. Graduates of such programs are expected to think analytically, critically, and creatively, traits indispensable in today’s complex society. Islamic education that includes STEM nurtures a generation ready to make positive contributions to the world, integrating religious values and scientific knowledge as a foundation for success in both this life and the hereafter.