INNOVATION FOR YOUTH DEVELOPMENT THROUGH “BOWORN-POWER” IN BANG NAM CHUET SUB-DISTRICT, LANG SUAN DISTRICT, CHUMPHON PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to 1) study the community context, problem and need for youth development through “Boworn-Power” in Bang Nam Chuet Sub-District, Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province, and 2) build an innovative plan for youth development through “Boworn-Power” in Bang Nam Chuet Sub-District, Lang Suan District, Chumphon Province. The study adopted the qualitative research and participatory action research methods. Data was collected from research papers and field survey. The in-depth interview of 36 representative samples was performed.

The research found the community context as follows. Farming was their main occupation, followed by coastal fisheries. Ko Phithak was their popular attraction among Thai and foreign tourists with local community homestays. Regarding economic, social and cultural aspects, the problems and need to develop youth included lack of parental warmth, domestic violence, lack of responsibility, failing to study hard, social media addiction and drug and gambling-related issues. Regarding the community organizations’ duties in controlling, protecting and developing, the “Bowon-Power” innovative plan for the youth development included the “Bowon-Power” network establishment and development, youth-led development with “Bowon-Power” and creating careers for young people. The community innovative plan for the youth development included strengthening and promoting the technology skills, community traditions and adoption of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in the community.