PUBLIC PARTICIPATION IN LOCAL DEVELOPMENT OF WAT THAT SUBDISTRICT MUNICIPALITY, MUEANG NONG KHAI DISTRICT, NONG KHAI PROVINCE

Abstract

This research article has three objectives: 1. to examine the current state of public participation in local development in Wat That Subdistrict Municipality; 2. to develop a model of public participation in local development for Wat That Subdistrict Municipality; and 3. to propose a model of public participation in local development for Wat That Subdistrict Municipality. Data were collected through document analysis, in-depth interviews with 30 key informants, and a focus group discussion with 12 participants. Content analysis techniques were employed, and the findings were presented descriptively. In addition, participatory action research was conducted with 95 participants through academic forums. Data were analyzed by evaluating training participation outcomes using descriptive statistics, including percentages and medians.

          The research findings are as follows: 1. Regarding the current state of public participation in local development in Wat That Subdistrict Municipality, it was found that promoting public participation in local development can apply Buddhist principles to enhance citizens’ participatory skills, preparing them for rapid social changes in the contemporary era. Citizens are able to transfer knowledge related to participation in local development and adapt with awareness to the dynamics of ongoing social change. 2. Regarding the model of public participation in local development in Wat That Subdistrict Municipality, community participation was found to foster development through approaches such as proposing a community charter, establishing steps for collaborative work, communicating a shared vision, utilizing diverse communication channels, public relations through key individuals, and communication through product exhibitions, all of which promote sustainable community development activities. 3. Regarding the proposed model of public participation in local development in Wat That Subdistrict Municipality, the results showed that participants’ satisfaction, knowledge, understanding, and application of knowledge—particularly in terms of knowledge and understanding—were overall perceived at a high level. When considered by aspect and ranked from highest to lowest mean scores, participants’ knowledge and understanding before training had a mean score of 4.35, while after training the mean score increased to 4.60.