International Journal of Islamic Religious Education

The International Journal of Islamic Religious Education (IJIRE) is honored to present its inaugural issue, Volume 1, Number 1, February 2026, marking a significant milestone in advancing global scholarship on Islamic education. This issue features contributions from three countries—Indonesia, Pakistan, and China—representing collaboration among seven higher education institutions: STAI Kh. Muhammad Ali Shodiq Tulungagung, Universitas Hasyim Asy’ari (UNHASY) Tebuireng Jombang, Aga Khan University (Pakistan), UIN Sayyid Ali Rahmatullah Tulungagung, Xi’an University (China), IAIFA Kediri, and Madrasah Aliyah Darunnajah Trenggalek (Indonesia). The inclusion of these diverse institutions reflects IJIRE’s mission to foster international academic collaboration, interdisciplinary dialogue, and the integration of Islamic educational perspectives within contemporary global discourse. This inaugural edition showcases a series of scholarly works addressing pressing issues and innovations in Islamic education, particularly those related to digital transformation, curriculum reform, and teacher professional development. The articles explore the dynamic intersection between Islamic pedagogical traditions and modern educational methodologies, emphasizing the importance of balancing spiritual values with technological advancement. Each contribution underscores the evolving role of Islamic education in preparing morally grounded, intellectually capable, and socially responsible learners for the complexities of the 21st century. The issue includes five key articles: Integrating Digital Technologies Into Islamic Religious Education: Opportunities And Challenges In The 21st Century, Integrating Digital Pedagogy And Islamic Values: Innovative Approaches To Curriculum Development In Islamic Religious Education, Religious Literacy Multiculturalism And Curriculum Reform In Contemporary Islamic Education, Strengthening Teacher Professional Development Through Transformative Leadership In Islamic Education, Enhancing Teacher Professional Growth Through Blended Learning And Innovative Pedagogies In Islamic Education. Collectively, these studies contribute to an enriched understanding of how Islamic educational institutions can integrate innovation while preserving ethical and theological integrity. Through this first publication, IJIRE reaffirms its commitment to promoting high-quality academic research that bridges traditional Islamic thought and modern educational paradigms. By encouraging cross-cultural scholarship and interinstitutional collaboration, the journal seeks to create a sustainable platform for global dialogue on Islamic education, pedagogy, and ethics. The editorial board extends an invitation to researchers, educators, and practitioners to engage with the insights presented in this issue and to contribute to future volumes of the International Journal of Islamic Religious Education (IJIRE