LIVELIHOOD ENHANCEMENT STRATEGIES BY SAPPURISA DHAMMA FOR MIGRANT WORKERS LAID OFF DUE TO COVID-19 OF THE PEOPLE IN LOWER NORTHEASTERN REGION

Abstract

This research article examines both external and internal challenges and applies the Seven Principles of Sappurisa-dhamma to develop a strategic model for strengthening sustainable livelihoods. The study also applies these principles to support displaced migrant workers who lost their jobs during the COVID-19 pandemic in the Lower Northeastern region of Thailand. A mixed-methods design was employed, primarily following a research and development approach, with a total of 1,275 participants. The quantitative phase involved 1,200 respondents from four provinces, selected through a quota of 400 individuals per province. The qualitative phase included 75 purposively selected key informants. Data were collected using online questionnaires, in-depth interviews, and expert-led focus group discussions. Statistical analyses included percentage, mean, standard deviation, normality testing, the Modified Priority Needs Index (PNI_modified), factor analysis, and multiple regression analysis. The results revealed that respondents’ views on external and internal challenges, as well as the model for strengthening livelihoods based on the Seven Principles of Sappurisa-dhamma, were consistently positive across seven dimensions, with the overall mean rated at a high level. ( = 3.57) The greatest need was identified in occupational promotion (PNI_modified = 0.406). The integration and application of the livelihood-strengthening model based on Sappurisa-dhamma were found to align significantly with empirical data, explaining 35.8% of the variance. Furthermore, sustainable livelihood enhancement was found to depend on three key factors: psychological support, skill development, and network building.