Driving the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy to Enhance Self-Reliance Capacity of the Khlong Nok Krathung Community Subdistrict, Nakhon Pathom Province
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Abstract
This study aims to study three objectives: (1) to explore the development of a learning space based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) in Khlong Nok Kratung Subdistrict, Nakhon Pathom Province; (2) to develop self-reliance activities based on the SEP within the community; and (3) to enhance the self-reliance competency of model families in the community. This qualitative study employed a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach. Key informants were purposively selected, including 40 people from the community members, local leaders, and administrators of the Subdistrict Administrative Organization. The research tools included interview forms and activity logs. The data were and analyzed using content analysis and presented through descriptive presentation.
The research findings revealed that 1) The development of a learning center for the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) has achieved a satisfactory level of success. A sufficiency economy learning center was established, which includes a demonstration plot for integrated agriculture and a space for knowledge transfer. The community actively participated in designing and managing the learning area, with management handled by community representatives. The dissemination of knowledge about SEP principles was carried out through various activities, including lectures, practical training, field trips, and experience sharing among community members. The evaluation results showed a significant increase in the community members' understanding of the principles of moderation, reasonableness, and self-immunity. 2) Self-reliance activities were developed in several dimensions based on sufficiency economy philosophy. These activities focus on the valuable and sustainable use of local resources. Key initiatives include integrated farming, which reduces reliance on external production factors; processing agricultural products to create value-added items; promoting the establishment of community savings groups for financial stability; and developing a system for managing waste and wastewater. The integrated farming practiced in the community involves planting a variety of crops on the same plot, which helps mitigate the risk of depending on a single crop and generates diverse income throughout the year. 3) The research found that the self-reliance capacity of model families in Khlong Nok Krathung subdistrict, Nakhon Pathom Province, has clearly increased, as measured by several indicators. These include a reduction in household expenses, an increase in income from community activities, and a rise in household savings.
Knowledge from this study indicates that the process of public participation is a key mechanism for driving the sufficiency economy philosophy, which leads to the promotion of self-reliance and sustainability at the community level.
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