Positioning Strategies of Islamic Senior High Schools Based on Pesantren Culture in Achieving Competitive Advantage

The objective of this study is to identifypositioning strategies for madrasas to achieve competitive advantage at MA Ma’arid NU, Blitar City. This research employs a qualitative approach with a case study design. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, observations, and documentation studies involving the principal, vice principal, and teachers of the madrasa. Data analysis is conducted through data reduction, data presentation, conclusion drawing, and data validation using credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. The results of this study indicate that the market segmentation strategy is carried out through the classification of cultural aspects, community preferences, and the distribution of alumni and teachers. The madrasa’s positioning strategy involves identifying the madrasa’s strengths, building an image of pesantren competence and achievements, improving service quality, setting a vision and mission, analyzing the vision and mission in accordance with community needs, identifying principles of learning, implementing programs, identifying benefits, and evaluating program outcomes.