THE ROLE OF WAQF IN EDUCATION: CHALLENGES, BARRIERS, AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

Abstract

Waqf has gained renewed attention as an alternative mechanism for financing education in Muslim-majority contexts, yet its practical implementation and developmental impact remain fragmented and underutilized. This systematic literature review explores the contemporary role of waqf in addressing educational financing challenges, structural barriers, and quality outcomes. Despite its roots in Islamic philanthropy, mainstream education systems have yet to fully integrate waqf, which could provide significant financial support and innovative solutions to educational financing challenges. This review aims to synthesize recent scholarly insights to better understand its current applications and future potential. A comprehensive search was conducted using Scopus and Web of Science databases, focusing on articles published between 2023 and 2025. The selection process followed the PRISMA framework, resulting in 13 eligible studies for final analysis. The findings were thematically categorized into three areas: (1) Waqf and Islamic Financing, which examines innovative models such as environmental waqf, digital crowdfunding, and inheritance-based donations; (2) Barriers to Education Funding, which identifies institutional limitations, regulatory fragmentation, gender disparities, and financial exclusion as key obstacles; and (3) Education Quality and Outcomes, which highlights the influence of waqf in vocational training, inclusive pedagogy, and learner-centered delivery models. The review shows that waqf projects can be flexible and fit with maqāṣid al-sharīʿah, but their overall effect is often limited by poor governance, a lack of financial literacy, and a lack of policy integration. However, emerging pathways for improved transparency, scalability, and alignment with educational priorities exist in frameworks such as national waqf indexes and technology-driven platforms. This review concludes that if waqf is managed well and used wisely, it can provide a lasting and suitable solution to the challenges of funding and fairness in modern education.