Character Education Management at Universitas Doktor Nugroho Magetan and Instituto Politecnico De Betano Timor Leste

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the management of character education at Universitas Doktor Nugroho Magetan and Instituto Politécnico de Betano, focusing on institutional policies, implementation practices, challenges, student perceptions, and recommendations for improving effectiveness. The research employed a qualitative case study design. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with university leaders, lecturers, and students, participant observation, and analysis of institutional documents related to character education policies and programs. The data were analyzed thematically using an inductive approach to identify key themes in character education management. The findings indicate that both institutions have established structured character education policies, although with different implementation approaches. Universitas Doktor Nugroho Magetan integrates character education into the academic curriculum through ethics and moral education courses, whereas Instituto Politécnico de Betano emphasizes social character development and leadership through extracurricular activities and community engagement programs. The main challenges include limited resources, differences in institutional perspectives regarding the importance of character education, and relatively low student participation. Despite these challenges, most students expressed positive perceptions of the character education programs. Overall, structured management plays a crucial role in strengthening character development in higher education institutions.