THE NETWORK PARTNERS CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT IN PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE TO PROMOTE AGRICULTURAL TOURISM

Abstract

Agri-tourism in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province lacks a clearly responsible agency and personnel with expertise and direct experience in agri-tourism management. the current network operates based on individual agency missions, lacking integration and collaboration with relevant organizations. Additionally, the government sometimes initiates activities in the area without considering the actual needs of the community. These activities also lack continuity, and the training techniques used for capacity building are ineffective. Furthermore, the development of local resources is unsystematic, with merely a few collaborative networks. These issues stem from the lack of integrated planning for area development.

The research indicated that the agri-tourism network needs to prioritize collaboration, focusing on development of tourism personnel, community products, tourist attractions, and facilities. It is crucial to connect with all relevant stakeholders, including government agencies, the private sector, the public, communities, and educational institutions, so that their participation is included in these development efforts. This involves organizing training programs to enhance skills and capabilities in tourism management, promoting value addition from community resources to products and services, delivering positive experiences to tourists, and fostering community participation as a model for agri-tourism management.

Furthermore, it was determined that developing appropriate capacity-building models for network partners is also essential. The development of the agri-tourism network’s capacity in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya province still faces challenges related to several mechanisms, including the people, resources, and management system used to drive the network.