PERFORMANCE EFFICIENCY DEVELOPMENT OF SANGHA ADMINISTRATORS FOR STRENGTHENING RATCHABURI PROVINCIAL SANGHA ADMINISTRATION

Abstract

This research article aims to: 1. Study the general conditions, problems, and obstacles in the duties of the Sangha administrative monks (Phra Sangkhathikarn) in the governance of the Sangha in Ratchaburi Province, 2. Identify factors that enhance the efficiency of the duties of the Sangha administrative monks to strengthen the governance of the Sangha in Ratchaburi Province, and 3. Propose improvements to enhance the performance of the Sangha administrative monks to strengthen the governance of the Sangha in Ratchaburi Province. This is a qualitative study based on field research, gathering data from 25 key informants selected through purposive sampling, and conducting focus group discussions with 10 experts. Content analysis was then performed on the collected data.

The research findings are as follows: 1. The general conditions, problems, and obstacles in the performance of the Sangha administrative monks in the governance of the Sangha in Ratchaburi Province revealed the following: 1. Strengths: The Sangha in Ratchaburi holds at least three annual meetings for governance review; 2. Weaknesses: The duration of these meetings is insufficient; 3. Opportunities: There are opportunities for higher education at the tertiary level; 4. Obstacles: Some temples are located far from district centers. 2. The factors that enhance the efficiency of the Sangha administrative monks include: 1. Regular annual capacity-building training programs for the Sangha administrative monks, 2. Support for education, and 3. Proposals for good governance practices for the abbot of each temple. 3. The development of performance efficiency in the Sangha administrative monks includes: 1. A clear hierarchical structure for governance, 2. An internal control system within the organization, 3. Transparent, honest, and fair performance in accordance with the Vinaya (monastic discipline), 4. The district chief monk is responsible for investigating and resolving any misconduct within the subdistrict, 5. Raising public awareness about the Sangha governance system, and 6. Holding at least three annual meetings for the Sangha administrative monks.