Implementation of the Strengthening Pancasila Student Profile (P5) Project with the Theme "Bhinneka Tunggal Ika" in Primary Schools: Fostering Tolerance Character from an Early Age

Penerapan Projek Penguatan Profil Pelajar Pancasila (P5) Bertema Bhineka Tunggal Ika di Sekolah Dasar: Membangun Karakter Toleransi Sejak Dini

Abstract

This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of implementing the Strengthening Pancasila Student Profile (P5) project with the theme Bhinneka Tunggal Ika in shaping the character of tolerance among primary school students. The research was conducted at UPT SD Negeri 1 Sinarmulya, Pringsewu Regency, using a descriptive qualitative approach. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis. The findings indicate that the implementation of the P5 project with the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika theme successfully enhanced students' understanding and attitudes toward cultural, religious, and ethnic diversity. Significant changes were observed in students' social interactions, such as increased inclusiveness, empathy, and cooperative behavior. However, several challenges were encountered during implementation, including limited teacher understanding in designing measurable character indicators, as well as administrative and time constraints. Key success factors included strong school leadership commitment, parental involvement, and students' responsiveness to contextual learning approaches. The study concludes that the Bhinneka Tunggal Ika themed P5 project significantly contributes to the development of tolerance character when supported by a synergistic educational ecosystem and adaptive policies. These findings offer both practical and theoretical contributions to the development of character education models in the era of the Merdeka Curriculum.