Contextual leadership and local wisdom: a qualitative case study in building school-based tolerance

Abstract

This study examined how contextual leadership by the school principal fosters a culture of tolerance based on local Papuan values at SMA Negeri 1 Sentani, Jayapura Regency. The research addressed the integration of Ondoafi leadership principles and the Satu Tungku Tiga Batu philosophy into school leadership, curriculum, and co-curricular activities to promote inclusivity and social cohesion. A qualitative case study design was employed, involving semi-structured interviews, participatory observation, and document analysis with the 1 principal, 3 vice principals, 3 teachers, 30 students, 2 school committee/parents, 2 customary leaders. Data analysis procedures are thematic analysis. Findings indicate that direct engagement, role modeling, moral guidance, and responsiveness to social issues by the principal, combined with structured school routines, collaborative learning, and community involvement, effectively foster a lived culture of tolerance. The integration of local wisdom reinforced cultural identity and social responsibility while creating a supportive and inclusive school climate. This study contributes a replicable framework for culturally responsive leadership and tolerance-building in multicultural educational contexts and highlights the need for explicit reflection to strengthen students’ understanding of local philosophical values.al values.