Smart Budgeting for Future-Ready Schools: Strategies for Efficiency and Financial Accountability in Education Funding

Hamini; Widyatmike Gede Mulawarman; Usfandi Haryaka

doi:10.56741/IISTR.jpes.00964

Authors

Hamini
haminisadikin@gmail.com
Mulawarman University
Widyatmike Gede Mulawarman Mulawarman University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0996-3757
Usfandi Haryaka Mulawarman University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4489-6051

Keywords:

Budget Efficiency, Education Funding, Governance, Smart Budgeting, Transparency

Abstract

The increasing demands for quality education amidst budget constraints make the efficiency and transparency of school fund management a crucial issue, especially for Islamic educational institutions. This study aims to formulate a smart budgeting model that not only emphasizes effectiveness and accountability but also integrates Islamic values such as amanah (trust), muʿāwamah (cooperation), and shirkah (partnership). This study employs a qualitative approach, utilizing a literature review method based on secondary sources, including academic journals, educational regulations, and relevant policy documents. Data collection techniques are employed through systematic literature reviews, while data analysis is conducted using thematic content analysis methods. The main findings show that a budgeting model based on five stages—goal setting, needs identification, budget preparation, monitoring and evaluation, and stakeholder involvement—is able to encourage the effectiveness of fund use, strengthen public transparency, and increase community participation. In addition, the integration of digital financial technology and diversification of financing sources, including the use of waqf, are key to creating fiscal sustainability for educational institutions. This study provides theoretical contributions to Islamic education financial management and recommends further empirical studies to test the validity and applicability of the model in various institutional contexts.

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Author Biographies

Hamini, Mulawarman University

is currently a student at Mulawarman University, located in Samarinda, Indonesia. Prior to her academic pursuit, she gained professional experience as a principal at TK Islam Al Idrus, a kindergarten institution based in Tenggarong. Her background in early childhood education leadership informs her continuing interest in advancing educational management and pedagogy. (email: haminisadikin@gmail.com).

Widyatmike Gede Mulawarman, Mulawarman University

is a distinguished education scientist, Professor, and Senior Lecturer in the field of educational management. She serves as the Head of the Master’s Study Program in Educational Management at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Mulawarman University, Samarinda. Her academic career is marked by leadership in curriculum development, educational research, and graduate supervision. She is recognized for his contributions to educational thought and innovation in Indonesia. (email: widyatmike@unmul.ac.id).

Usfandi Haryaka, Mulawarman University

is a committed educational scientist and Senior Lecturer at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education, Mulawarman University, Samarinda. With a strong foundation in teacher training and education, he actively engages in both instructional and administrative roles within the faculty. His work focuses on educational development, teaching strategies, and the training of future educators. (email: usfandi.haryaka@fkip.unmul.ac.id).

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