The Empowerment Process of the Elderly Group Towards Participatory Products Development and Enhancement: A case study of Rattan Handicrafts Group in Ngew sub-district, Thoeng district, Chiang Rai Province.

Abstract

The objectives of this research are to (1) study the context and problem situation, (2) study the methods to empowerment, and (3) develop a model to empower the elderly rattan handicrafts group to become entrepreneurs with participation in Ngew sub-district, Thoeng district, Chiang Rai province.

This research is qualitative methods based on participatory action research (PAR). The key informants are a member of the rattan handicraft group, community leaders, and 22 people. The research tools were an in-depth interview, and a focus group discussion and analyzed using social Interaction  analysis.

The results showed that the elderly member of the rattan handicraft group in Teng District, Chiang Rai Province, who belong to the weaving handicraft group, faced problems in terms of group management and structure, lack of participation. In addition, they also faced difficulties in developing entrepreneurial skills.

Guidelines for enhancing the empowerment of the elderly member of the rattan handicraft group in Ngew sub-district. By applying the concept of "Empowerment" along with the implementation of the "STRONG Model"

For the development of the empowerment model, the focus should be on involving network partners in the driving area to carry out tangible activities, namely empowerment in terms of knowledge, economics, and administration.

This research suggests that the government agencies and various local organizations in the area should develop strategic plans and operational plans to empower the Enterprise Rattan Handicrafts Community Group in Ngew sub-district as proactive leaders in community development and these plans should be applied to other elderly groups as well.