IMPLEMENTASI BIMBINGAN PERKAWINAN DI KUA PURWOKERTO UTARA SEBAGAI UPAYA MENEKAN ANGGKA PERCERAIAN

The high divorce rate in Indonesia indicates that many couples are not adequately prepared for married life. As a preventive effort, the Indonesian Ministry of Religious Affairs organizes the Marriage Guidance Program (Bimbingan Perkawinan or Bimwin) for prospective brides and grooms through the Office of Religious Affairs (KUA). This study aims to examine the implementation of the Marriage Guidance Program at the KUA of North Purwokerto District and to analyze its positive impacts on prospective married couples.
This study employed a qualitative descriptive approach. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and documentation. The informants included the Head of the KUA, Islamic religious counselors, prospective brides and grooms participating in the Marriage Guidance Program, married couples, and community leaders. Data validity was ensured through source and technique triangulation, while data analysis followed the Miles and Huberman interactive model consisting of data reduction, data display, and conclusion drawing.
The findings reveal that the Marriage Guidance Program at the KUA of North Purwokerto District has been implemented in accordance with the guidelines issued by the Ministry of Religious Affairs. The program consists of participant registration, delivery of learning materials, discussions, question-and-answer sessions, and evaluation. The materials include the foundation of a harmonious family (keluarga sakinah), the rights and responsibilities of husband and wife, family communication, conflict management, reproductive health, and family financial management. The program has generated several positive impacts, including improved understanding of married life, better communication skills between spouses, enhanced mental and emotional readiness, improved ability to manage family conflicts and finances, and stronger awareness of building a harmonious family based on Islamic values. Nevertheless, the Marriage Guidance Program cannot be regarded as the sole factor in reducing divorce rates, as marital sustainability is also influenced by various factors that arise after marriage.