Revitalizing Gambang Semarang in Education: A Triple Helix Strategy for Strengthening the Creative Economy within the SDGs Framework

Abstract

This study examines the integration of Gambang Semarang, a traditional musical heritage of Central Java, into cultural arts education to support cultural preservation and creative economy empowerment. The research addresses the urgency of sustaining cultural traditions in the era of globalization while aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 4 (quality education) and Goal 8 (decent work and economic growth). Using a descriptive qualitative approach with a case study design, the study involved Semarang City students, teachers, principals, artists, and creative economy practitioners. Data were collected through observation, interviews, surveys, and documentation, and analyzed using Miles and Huberman’s interactive model. The findings show that integrating Gambang Semarang enhances students’ cultural appreciation, strengthens local identity, and creates opportunities for creative entrepreneurship through performances, digital content, and community engagement. Supporting factors include teacher and student enthusiasm, active art communities, and policy support, while limitations involve a lack of instruments, teaching modules, and teacher expertise. This study highlights the relevance of the Triple Helix model linking education, cultural communities, and government in developing sustainable education and creative economy ecosystems. It offers a replicable model for other regions, demonstrating how traditional arts can function as educational resources and drivers of creative economic growth.