SOCIAL INNOVATION OF MONKS DURING THE PANDEMIC OF COVID-19

Abstract

This academic article was related to COVID-19 situation, all organizations and institutions have been affected by this pandemic. Including Buddhist institutions, which have played an important role for Thai society since the old age in terms of being an educational center, a source of cultural promotion and being a mental refuge for people in the community. Due to this crisis, it is imperative that Buddhist institutions must manage its changed so that the Buddhist activities can be carried out smoothly. The study found that COVID-19 situation was initiated social innovation from the temple or monks daily activities adaptation. In terms of being an educational center, there has been a change in learning and teaching style from Onsite to Online. Promotion of arts and culture was considered and implemented the restoration of the antiques to be ready for tourism once it’s stable. The spreading Buddhism aspect has changed from reactive to proactive such as activity called “talking to monks” to heal the soul, live online using Facebook, distributing Dhamma books through the website. Last, being mentally reliant on people in the community the format has been adjusted to focus on religious welfare, helping people in a concrete way such as Pansuk cabinet, food and essential things for home delivery, using temple space for vaccinated. But there are still issues that need continuous improvement, especially in personnel. There should be support for monks to learn technology for development, open mind to learn new things inclusive of temple administration and management.