Studies on the role of Guru Penggerak in optimizing the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in primary education are essential to obtain empirical insights into the program’s contribution to improving learning quality. This study aims to analyze the strategic role of Guru Penggerak in supporting the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum, which emphasizes student-centered learning, curriculum flexibility, and the strengthening of character education and 21st-century competencies. This research employed a qualitative method with a descriptive phenomenological approach grounded in the social definition paradigm. The study was conducted at SDN Cakung Timur 09 Pagi, Jakarta, Indonesia. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation. The findings indicate that Guru Penggerak possess a comprehensive understanding of the concepts and objectives of the Merdeka Curriculum, as reflected in the implementation of project-based learning, differentiated instruction, and the integration of technology in the teaching and learning process. Furthermore, Guru Penggerak actively contribute to creating a conducive learning environment, fostering students’ creativity, and strengthening collaboration and a positive learning culture within the school. These findings affirm that Guru Penggerak play a strategic role as agents of change in optimizing the implementation of the Merdeka Curriculum in primary education.

Keywords: Strategic, Role, Guru Penggerak, Enhancing, Learning, Creativity, Merdeka Curriculum, Primary Education.

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Source of Funding:

This study received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.

Competing Interests Statement:

The authors declare that they have no competing interests related to this work.

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The authors declare that they consented to the publication of this study.

Authors' contributions:

Both the authors made an equal contribution in the Conception and design of the work, Data collection, Drafting the article, and Critical revision of the article.

Ethical Approval:

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