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Articles

Vol. 1 No. 4 (2026): MEI : MUJAHADAH JURNAL ILMU MULTIDISIPLIN

Islamic Philanthropy for the Next Generation: A Systematic Review on Waqf and Youth Empowerment through Skill Building

Submitted
July 4, 2026
Published
2026-05-25

Abstract

This study aims to examine the role of waqf as an instrument of Islamic philanthropy in empowering the younger generation through skill development, employing a Systematic Literature Review (SLR) approach guided by the PRISMA protocol. The study analyzes 55 selected articles retrieved from various international academic databases published between 2013 and 2024. The findings reveal that waqf has undergone a significant transformation from its traditional function into more productive and digitally driven models capable of sustainably supporting youth empowerment initiatives. Three primary models of waqf implementation are identified: asset-based productive waqf, cash waqf invested in sharia-compliant financial instruments, and community-based waqf. Waqf-supported empowerment programs predominantly focus on developing digital, entrepreneurial, and vocational skills aligned with the demands of the modern labor market. The effectiveness of these programs is largely determined by the quality of nazhir governance, the integration of digital technologies, and the strength of multi-sector partnerships. However, several critical challenges persist, including limited human resource capacity, fragmented regulatory frameworks, and the absence of robust monitoring and long-term impact evaluation systems. This study further proposes the WAQF-EMPOWER conceptual framework as an integrative model to optimize the role of waqf in youth empowerment. Overall, the findings underscore the strategic potential of waqf in fostering sustainable human capital development among young generations, grounded in Islamic values.

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