DEVELOPING CULTURAL INTELLIGENCE AND WORK READINESS IN A MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY: STRATEGIES FOR MUSLIM STUDENTS IN SOUTHERN THAILAND UNIVERSITIES

Abstract

This study aimed to: 1) Examine the levels of cultural intelligence and work readiness in a multicultural society among Muslim students in universities in Southern Thailand; 2) Analyze the effects of cultural intelligence, internal factors, and external factors on the work readiness of Muslim students in a multicultural society; and 3) Develop strategies for enhancing cultural intelligence to prepare Muslim students for employment in a multicultural society. A quantitative research approach was employed. The sample consisted of 400 Thai Muslim undergraduate students selected through multistage sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analyzed by descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The findings revealed that the levels of cultural intelligence, work readiness, internal factors, and external factors were all high ( = 4.20, S.D. = 0.57). The results of the multiple regression analysis indicated that cultural intelligence ( = .381), internal factors ( = .248), and external factors ( = .219) had significant positive effects on work readiness. Together, these variables explained 62.70% of the variance in work readiness (R² = .627), with cultural intelligence emerging as the strongest predictor. The strategic synthesis was developed by integrating the statistical findings with SWOT and TOWS matrix analyses. The results proposed five strategic approaches: 1) Developing multicultural curricula and learning programs; 2) Promoting cross-cultural experiences; 3) Enhancing communication and soft skills; 4) Creating inclusive learning environments that foster cultural diversity; and 5) Strengthening collaborative networks among universities, local communities, and workplaces. These strategies are expected to enhance the potential of Muslim students and effectively prepare them for employment in multicultural workplaces.