BUDDHIST INTEGRATION FOR PUBLIC WELFARE ADMINISTRATION OF THE SANGHA IN SAMUT SONGKHRAM PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to: 1. examine the general conditions, 2. study the management process of public utility projects undertaken by the Sangha in Samut Songkhram Province, and 3. propose a Buddhist-integrated approach for effective administration. Data were collected from 25 key informants comprising policymakers, practitioners, and project supporters and through a focused group discussion with 10 experts in research, monastic administration, and public utilities. The research instruments, including semi-structured interviews and focus group protocols, demonstrated a content validity index (CVI) of 1.00.

The findings reveal that the general conditions involve both enabling and limiting factors. Enablers include clear policies from senior leadership, ongoing personnel development, and strong cooperation from local agencies. However, challenges persist in the form of budget limitations, insufficient personnel, and delays in coordination. The management process consists of four key stages: 1. participatory strategic planning, 2. implementation focused on plan dissemination and capacity building, 3. monitoring through committee oversight and field visits, and 4. systematic improvement. The Buddhist-integrated approach is grounded in the application of the Four Iddhipada (Bases of Success) in tandem with modern management principles. Chanda (aspiration) is promoted through motivation and stakeholder engagement, Viriya (effort) is cultivated by setting a good example, Citta (focus) is enhanced by leveraging modern technology, and Vimamsa (investigation) is applied in systematic analysis and evaluation. This integration of Buddhist values and contemporary administrative practices strengthens the effectiveness of public utility management by the Sangha, ensuring responsiveness to community needs and supporting the enduring relevance of Buddhism in modern Thai society.