The Role and Strategy of the Indonesian Waqf Agency (BWI) of Aceh Province in Developing Productivity and Improving Nazhir Skills for Creative Economy Empowerment through Waqf in Banda Aceh City

Abstract

This research aims to examine the role and strategy of the Indonesian Waqf Agency (BWI) of Aceh Province in increasing waqf productivity and developing nazhir skills in the context of creative economy empowerment in Banda Aceh City. Waqf as one of the instruments of Islamic economics has great potential in encouraging the welfare of the people if managed productively and professionally. The research method used is a descriptive qualitative approach with data collection techniques through literature studies, interviews, and documentation. The results of the study show that BWI Aceh Province has implemented a number of strategic programs such as nazhir training and certification, as well as encouraging the integration of waqf assets with the creative economy sector, although it still faces various obstacles such as limited human resources, lack of cross-sector synergy, and low public literacy about productive waqf. This study recommends the need for closer collaboration between BWI, local governments, and business actors to optimize the potential of waqf in encouraging sustainable sharia-based economic development.