Promoting Knowledge and Understanding of Politics and Governance among Youth Groups to Create a Strong and Sustainable Democracy

Abstract

This research article aims to 1) study the problems of knowledge and understanding of politics and government among youth groups in a democratic regime, 2) study the guidelines for promoting knowledge and understanding of politics and government among youth groups in a strong and sustainable democratic regime. This is a qualitative research using 5 educational institutions in Mueang Chaiyaphum District, Chaiyaphum Province: 1) Chaiyaphum Phakdi Chumphon School, 2) Chaiyaphum Women's School, 3) Mueang Phaya Lae School, 4) Kanchanaphisek Wittayalai Chaiyaphum School, and 5) Kuttum Witthaya School. The research instruments are interview forms with 100 key informants. Data are analyzed by using descriptive analysis.

The results of the research reveal that 1) the problem of youth’s knowledge and understanding of politics and government found that most youths have basic knowledge and understanding of politics, with insufficient understanding of rights, duties, and roles of citizens according to democratic principles. Most political interests arise from trends on social media rather than learning through systematic educational processes. In addition, there is a lack of forums for exchanging opinions and activities to enhance democratic consciousness in educational institutions. 2) Guidelines for promoting knowledge and understanding according to a strong democratic regime include: 1) developing a curriculum that integrates political issues with learning in daily life; 2) organizing forums for discussion, debate, and exchange of opinions between youth in educational institutions and communities; 3) promoting the creative use of digital media and social media to stimulate political interest; 4) supporting youth leadership training projects that promote democratic values; and 5) coordinating cooperation between schools, families, and government agencies to develop youth with a sense of good citizenship. The knowledge gained from the research found that youths have basic political knowledge, lack in-depth understanding and a platform for exchanging knowledge. The promotion approach should integrate political learning with real life, use creative media, organize seminar activities, develop youth leaders, and create cooperation in all sectors to strengthen a strong and sustainable democracy.