THE ROLE OF SCOUT LEADERS IN SHAPING STUDENTS’ ECOTHEOLOGICAL AWARENESS: A CASE STUDY AT MAN 2 KARANGANYAR

Abstract

This study was motivated by the environmental crisis caused by low ecological and 
spiritual awareness of nature among humans. The concept of eco-theology emerges as a solution by integrating the relationship between God, humans, and nature. In an educational context, the Scouting extracurricular activity is viewed as a strategic means to instill ecotheological values. This study aims to determine the role of Scout leaders in fostering students’ ecotheological awareness at MAN 2 Karanganyar, as well as to identify the supporting and inhibiting factors. 
This study employs a qualitative approach using field research. The subjects of this 
study are the Scout leaders at MAN 2 Karanganyar. The informants include the Adiwiyata coordinator, as well as students comprising the troop council and 10th-grade Scout members. In data collection, the researcher used interview, observation, and documentation techniques to obtain in-depth and comprehensive information. Data validity was then tested through source and technique triangulation. Meanwhile, the author analyzed the data using the Miles and Huberman model, which includes the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and drawing conclusions. 
The research results indicate that Scout leaders play a crucial role in fostering 
students’ eco-theological awareness, which can be realized through several roles: as teachers, parents, older mentors, facilitators, partners, consultants, and motivators. These roles are implemented through environment-based activities such as community service, tree planting, 
waste management, and outdoor activities like hiking and camping. Supporting factors in fostering eco-theological awareness include the Adiwiyata program, nature-based Scouting activities, and support from Scout leaders and the school environment. Meanwhile, inhibiting factors include limited facilities, low awareness among some students, as well as time and budget constraints. Thus, Scouting activities serve as an effective medium for internalizing eco-theological values, although strengthening mentoring strategies is still needed so that this awareness can be formed comprehensively and sustainably. 

Keywords: Environmental Crisis, MAN 2 Karanganyar, Role of Scout Leaders, Ecotheology