Bridging Technology and Tradition: Strategies for Integrating Education and Character Development in Aceh's Schools in the Era of Society 5.0

Background: This qualitative study investigates how schools in Aceh integrate technology with educational values to foster students' character development within the framework of Society 5.0. As the world undergoes rapid digital transformation, this research explores how Aceh’s educational institutions adapt to these changes while preserving cultural and moral values; Methods: Employing in-depth interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis, the study involved teachers, students, and administrators from multiple schools. The key areas of focus include pedagogical strategies, technology integration, and character-building initiatives; Results: The findings indicate that schools are embedding technology in education while prioritizing empathy, collaboration, and social responsibility essential attributes for thriving in Society 5.0. Furthermore, this study identifies both challenges and opportunities in achieving this balance; Conclusions: The insights derived provide valuable recommendations for educators and policymakers, offering a structured framework to harmonize technological advancements with character education in the digital era.