BUDDHIST METHODS FOR MANAGING EDUCATIONAL WELFARE WORK OF THE SANGHA OF SAMUT SONGKHRAM PROVINCE

Abstract

This research aims to: 1. study the general conditions, 2. examine the management process, and 3. propose guidelines for the management of Buddhist charitable education (Suksa Songkhro). Data were collected from 35 key informants, including senior monks, government agency representatives, religious scholars, and experts, through semi-structured interviews and focused group discussions. The research instruments were validated for content accuracy, with a content validity index (CVI) of 1.00.

The findings reveal that the Sangha (monastic community) possesses key strengths in applying Buddhist principles and establishing robust collaborative networks, despite limitations in personnel and budget. The management process consists of four core components: 1. Planning, which emphasizes contextual analysis of communities and the formation of a shared vision; 2. Implementation, focused on participatory engagement and capacity building of personnel; 3. Monitoring, conducted by diverse committees with clearly defined performance indicators; and 4. Improvement, which promotes research, development, and social innovation. urthermore, the study integrates the Buddhist principle of the Four Iddhipada (Paths of Accomplishment) into modern management practices: Chanda (aspiration) is applied to motivate and develop personnel; Viriya (effort) supports continuous planning and execution; Citta (focus) guides the establishment of committees and monitoring systems; and Vimamsa (investigation) ensures thoughtful analysis and evaluation. This integration of Buddhist doctrine with contemporary management enhances the effectiveness and sustainability of Buddhist charitable education, aligning it with Thai socio-cultural contexts.