EVALUATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE POVERTY ALLEVIATION AND SUSTAINABLE HUMAN DEVELOPMENT PROJECT BASED ON THE PHILOSOPHY OF SUFFICIENCY ECONOMY IN THOENG DISTRICT, CHIANG RAI PROVINCE

Abstract

Introduction: This study evaluated the Poverty Alleviation and Sustainable Human Development Project, implemented in accordance with the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy in Thoeng District, Chiang Rai Province. Objectives: The study aimed to: 1) investigate the current conditions of project implementation under the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy; and 2) evaluate project implementation in Thoeng District, Chiang Rai Province, using the CIPP Model. Method: This quantitative study incorporated open-ended responses. The participants comprised 196 members of the district command-center committee (CJP.A.) and operational teams. Data were collected using a questionnaire and analysed through descriptive statistics and content analysis. Results: The findings on current project implementation showed that: 1) in the context dimension, stakeholders collaboratively analysed TPMAP data across five dimensions throughout Thoeng District; 2) in the input dimension, strong cooperation was received from partner networks, although household-level budget support remained inadequate; 3) in the process dimension, implementation was flexible and aligned with activities that promoted sustainability; and 4) in the product dimension, community members demonstrated positive behavioural changes and satisfaction with the project. The CIPP evaluation further indicated that structural constraints including access to agricultural land, capital, and knowledge were the most significant barriers to self-reliance, whereas implementers’ understanding of their roles was at a moderate level. Strategic planning, implementation methods, and the efficient use of the budget were rated highly; however, the adequacy and appropriateness of budget allocation were rated at a moderate level. Activities were highly aligned with project objectives, although interagency meetings and consultations were conducted at a moderate level. Satisfaction with the performance of officers and operational teams was rated at the highest level, while behavioural changes among community members were rated at a high level. Conclusion: Poverty alleviation based on the Philosophy of Sufficiency Economy, local wisdom, and TPMAP spatial data enables more accurate problem analysis and targeted support for intended beneficiaries. Key success factors included personnel who understood the local context, multisectoral collaboration, and activities consistent with community ways of life. Nevertheless, limitations remained in budget allocation, material resources, and follow-up mechanisms. The CIPP evaluation showed high performance in the process, context, and product dimensions, whereas the input dimension was rated at a moderate level. Strengthening personnel capacity and budget support is therefore essential. The project contributed to increased household income and greater self-reliance by providing short-term relief for basic hardship while promoting long-term occupational development, savings, supplementary income, and reduced reliance on borrowing.