The Development of the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center Based on the Sufficiency Economy of MCU Khon Kaen Campus

Abstract

This research, titled The Development of the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Khon Kaen Campus, had three objectives: (1) to explore the concepts of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy in relation to the Buddhist Agro-Cultural Learning Center; (2) to study the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Khon Kaen Campus, based on the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy; and (3) to examine the results of developing the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center according to the principles of the Sufficiency Economy. The findings revealed that the conceptual foundation of the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center integrates the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy into practical agricultural applications by incorporating Buddhist teachings such as mindfulness, contentment, and simplicity. This integration fosters balance in production, daily living, and self-reliance, which form the essential basis for sustainable living guided by the Sufficiency Economy. Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Khon Kaen Campus, established the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center using the Khok-Nong-Na Model to serve as a prototype for applying the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy to improve quality of life and promote self-sufficiency. The center also functions as a collaborative platform between the university, government agencies, and the community to disseminate knowledge, expand practical outcomes, and build networks that support sustainable development. The development of the Buddhist Agricultural Learning Center has yielded significant outcomes: it has become (1) a practical learning center where monks, students, and community members can gain hands-on experience in new-theory agriculture; (2) a safe food production source for providing chemical-free ingredients to the university kitchen serving monks, students, and staff; (3) a collaborative network hub linking the university with partner organizations; and (4) a model for environmental conservation through organic farming, soil restoration, and water resource rehabilitation.