THE PROCESS LEADING TO THE STRENGTHENING OF THE WOMEN GROUP, WANG SAPHUNG DISTRICT, LOEI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research had the objectives to study the implementation of a women’s occupational development group in a community Wang Saphung District of Loei Province, and to distill lessons learned from the process of implementation that made this group successful. The author offers recommendations for strengthening and replicating the success of this group.  Data were collected from ten members of the group, using a questionnaire and personal interview.  This study found that this group has strong management, clear regulations and procedures, and strong participation of group members.  This group also received outside technical support from both public and private sector agencies, who helped to link the group with other women’s support groups in the district and form a network for mutual exchange and trouble-shooting.  These are key factors behind the success of the group so far.  However, there is room for improvement.    The group generates funds to support women’s occupational development through the use of a revolving loan fund mechanism.  However, the income for the fund is uneven, and that means that the group cannot always support all the women that need help.  Also, repayment of the loan funds is not always on schedule.