Developing Cadres of Student Preachers Through Simulations Religious and Open Evaluations at the At-Tahdzib Islamic Boarding School’s Preaching Assembly

Abstract

Islamic boarding schools (pesantren) serve as religious educational institutions and platforms for preparing students (santri) to contribute to da'wah (Islamic outreach) within the broader community. This community service report examines the development of da'wah cadres, an initiative carried out by the Majelis Dakwah Pesantren At-Tahdzib (MDPA) at the Pesantren At-Tahdzib in Rejoagung, Ngoro, Jombang, Indonesia. Launched around 2017, the program addresses the need to equip students who may feel hesitant when asked to speak in public religious forums. Key activities include simulations of religious events, practice sessions for short sermons (approximately seven minutes per student), rotating speaking opportunities, and open feedback provided by mentors. Evaluation focuses on five aspects: etiquette (adab), intonation, content, self-confidence, and body language. This report employs a descriptive-reflective approach, drawing on practitioners' notes as well as photographic and video documentation. Observations indicate that the program provides a consistent space for practice and feedback; students have become more confident in speaking and more organized in their delivery. These observations, however, are not yet supported by quantitative pre- and post-training measurements. The analytical framework incorporates experiential learning, observational learning, Islamic communication etiquette, and feedback theory. The report highlights the value of simulations and open feedback in pesantren-based da'wah development and recommends more robust documentation and evaluation for future initiatives.