Competency Development for junior Executive Civil Servants in Thailand’s Local Administrative Organizations
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Abstract
The objectives of this research were: 1) to examine the current state of support policies, supervision, and challenges in competency development for junior executive civil servants in Local Administrative Organizations (LAOs); and 2) to propose guidelines for developing the administrative competencies of these executives in Thailand. This qualitative study collected data through purposive sampling of 60 key informants, comprising 40 high-level and middle-level executives and 20 academics and experts. Data were gathered via in-depth interviews, analyzed using content analysis, and presented through descriptive analysis.
The findings aligned with the research objectives reveal that: 1) Local government organizations have shown improvement in policies related to the development of administrative competencies. These organizations are undergoing a transitional phase from a top-down, policy-driven approach toward an outcome-oriented model that emphasizes competency development responsive to local needs. Governance mechanisms have gradually shifted from strict regulatory control to approaches that promote organizational learning and long-term human resource development. Nevertheless, significant systemic constraints persist, including hierarchical bureaucratic structures, patronage systems and local political influence, as well as limitations in human resources, budget allocation, digital technology, and knowledge management systems. 2) To development, training programs remain essential for strengthening specific competencies among junior-level administrative civil servants, particularly in areas such as systems thinking and data analysis. Accordingly, local government organizations should design area-based development initiatives that emphasize practical, work-based learning, with mentoring and coaching systems serving as key mechanisms for competency enhancement.
The knowledge generated from this study provides both policy-oriented and practical foundations for developing a more flexible and effective competency-based system for local civil servants, thereby contributing to improved administrative performance within local government organizations.
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