THE ALIGNMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCE EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND WITH THE OPERATIONAL PERFORMANCE OF AMIL AT THE NATIONAL ZAKAT AGENCY (BAZNAS) OF WEST JAVA PROVINCE

Abstract

This study investigates the relationship between the educational background of human resources (HR) and the operational performance of amil (zakat officers) at the National Zakat Agency (BAZNAS) of West Java Province, Indonesia. Employing a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys, semi-structured interviews, and literature review. The quantitative component involved descriptive and regression analyses, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to provide contextual depth. The results reveal that employees with an educational background in Islamic studies (sharia) exhibit a stronger understanding of zakat jurisprudence, more accurate distribution practices aligned with sharia principles, and enhanced communication with muzakki (donors) and mustahik (recipients). Nonetheless, training programs and professional experience significantly compensate for the competencies of employees from non-sharia backgrounds, enabling them to achieve comparable performance outcomes. The findings suggest that sharia-based recruitment, continuous professional development, and zakat literacy training are essential strategies to enhance institutional professionalism. Furthermore, this research highlights the strategic role of educational alignment in optimizing zakat management and institutional accountability. This study contributes to the broader discourse on Islamic social finance by offering empirical evidence on how human capital attributes impact operational effectiveness in zakat institutions. The results provide practical implications for policymakers and zakat management bodies aiming to professionalize and modernize Islamic philanthropic institutions in Muslim-majority countries.