The State and Conditions of Social Cohesion among Higher Education Students in Southern Border Provinces

Abstract

This research article aimed to study the state of social cohesion among undergraduate students at Prince of Songkla University, Pattani Campus. The 27 informants of this study consisted of 15 students who were sophomore, junior and senior, 9 administrators of Student Affairs, and 3 student advisors. The data were collected through in-depth interview using a semi-structured interview form. The data were analyzed using correlation to theory concepts. The study revealed that social cohesion condition among undergraduate students established social interaction in a high level of social cohesion in many contexts. The condition establishing social cohesion comprised three levels: the individual level, which occurred with membership motivation, social cohesion perception, and participation; the community level, which considered the same value and social capital; and the institution level. The results of this study led to two levels of proposals: the policy level, where administrators should be aware of and establish proactive policies toward truly cultural diversity, and the performance level, where the administrators should emphasize extreme activity at every level based on cultural diversity management. The interaction between students from different cultures must be focused on. Lecturers and Student Affairs department should enhance diversity management skills and cultural communication. Moreover, student leaders should possess the cultural leadership to be an exemplary model in living together in cultural diversity society.