CONFLICT MANAGEMENT BY MADRASAH PRINCIPALS TO ENHANCE TEACHER WORK PRODUCTIVITY AT MADRASAH TSANAWIYAH IN PIDIE REGENCY

Abstract

Conflict is an inevitable phenomenon in educational organizations, including madrasahs, which require effective management strategies to maintain organizational stability and improve teacher performance. This study aims to analyze the conflict management practices of madrasah principals in improving teacher work productivity in Islamic junior high schools in Pidie Regency, Indonesia. This research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive design. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and documentation involving madrasah principals, teachers, and educational staff. Data analysis was conducted through data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing.The results showed that madrasah principals implemented several conflict management strategies, including preventive conflict management, collaborative problem-solving, open communication, negotiation, and decision-making based on organizational interests. Principals played an important role as leaders who mediated conflicts, created a positive working environment, and encouraged cooperation among teachers. Effective conflict management contributed to increased teacher discipline, responsibility, motivation, and commitment to improving educational quality. However, several challenges remained, including differences in individual perceptions, limited communication intensity, and variations in teacher readiness to accept organizational changes. This study concludes that effective conflict management by madrasah principals is an essential leadership competency that significantly supports teacher work productivity. Principals who are able to manage conflicts constructively can transform organizational tensions into opportunities for improvement and professional development..