Educational Strategies of Muhammadiyah Cadre Development in Producing Progressive Leaders

Abstract

This study explores the relationship between Muhammadiyah cadre development, cadre loyalty, and the formation of progressive leadership using a structural equation modeling approach based on partial least squares (SEM-PLS). The study aims to understand how development dimensions, such as organizational spirit, knowledge and insight, and Islamic values, influence cadre loyalty and progressive leadership. Cadre loyalty is also analyzed as a mediator to identify indirect relationships within this model. The research involved 141 respondents who are Muhammadiyah cadres. Data were analyzed using SEM-PLS 4.0 to evaluate the direct and mediated relationships among variables, as well as to validate the measurement model. The results show that the development of organizational spirit and knowledge and insight significantly influence cadre loyalty. Additionally, the development of knowledge and insight directly affects the formation of progressive leadership. Cadre loyalty is proven to be an important mediator that strengthens the relationship between development and leadership. However, the direct influence of Islamic values development on progressive leadership is not significant, although the indirect effect through cadre loyalty demonstrates relevance. This study highlights the importance of structured cadre development programs to support loyalty and cultivate progressive leaders within Muhammadiyah. Practical implications include enhancing the significance of programs based on ideological values, strategic innovation, and the integration of Islamic principles. This study contributes to the literature by emphasizing the role of loyalty in leadership development. Future research should use longitudinal approaches and multi-level analyses to further expand these findings.