THE ROLE OF MORAL MESSAGES IN ANTI-CORRUPTION EDUCATION AMONG STUDENTS

Abstract

Corruption in Indonesia has evolved into a systemic problem that not only undermines governance but also erodes the fabric of social life in society. This behavior is no longer limited to the practice of bribery or abuse of authority at the elite level; it has also penetrated educational spaces and everyday life. In this context, anti-corruption Education becomes a strategic instrument to shape the character of the younger generation with integrity, especially in the university environment. This study aims to analyze the level of students' understanding of anti-corruption Education and explore the internalization of moral messages in their academic lives. The study employs a qualitative descriptive approach within a constructivist paradigm. Data collection techniques include in-depth interviews, observations, and literature studies, with informants selected through purposive sampling techniques, consisting of Vice Rector III, lecturers, and students of Islamic University 45 Bekasi. The results of the study indicate that students have a relatively good understanding of the substance of anti-corruption Education and have begun to apply the values of honesty, responsibility, and transparency in their daily behavior. One informant stated that this learning helped him understand that corruption encompasses various manipulative actions, not only the misuse of public funds but also small habits that deviate and have the potential to form a permissive mindset towards corruption.