Abstract:
This research was conducted with its main objectives (1) To investigate the leadership level of the local governor in Hat Kruat community development, (2) To study the relationship between Buddhist principles and the local governor in Hat Kruat community development, and (3) To explore problems, obstacles, and suggestions in terms of local governors leadership in Hat Kruat community development, Meaung district, Uttaradit province. The mixed-method approaches were applied. In terms of the quantitative approach, 380 subjects were selected using Taro Yamane formula from 7,535 population, who are individuals living in Hat Kruat sub-district with age more than 18. The data were analyzed by calculating frequency, means, percentage, standard deviation, and Pearson correlation coefficient. In terms of the qualitative approach, the in-depth interview was applied with 9 key informants. The content analysis was applied to qualitative data analysis. The qualitative results were presented in descriptive form with grouped frequency table to support quantitative data.
The findings indicated as follows.
1.The total mean score of the local governors leadership according to the principles of Brahma Vihara Dharma (four sublime states of mind) was at average level (x̄ = 2.96, S.D. = 0.73). The total mean score of the local governors leadership in Hat Kruat community development was at the average level (x̄ = 3.13, S.D. = 0.71).
2. The relationship between the local governors leadership and the principles of Brahma Vihara Dharma (four sublime states of mind) was a strong and positive correlation (r= .799**) with an acceptable statistical significance level of 0.01; the hypothesis was accepted.
3. In terms of the problems and obstacles concerning local governors in community development, local governors' works are still irrelevant to their responsibilities. They cannot give advice to people when problems occur in the community. As most of them have poor teamwork skills, they confront problems without systematic planning. The financial administration of the government budget is still insufficient because of the lack of financial plans. Also, there are problems relating to the activity organization in the local area to enhance the good relationship between local governors and local people. As there are unclear rules for non-violence and peace in the community, there are still obstacles in terms of local work integration. The suggestions relating to governors leadership in Hat Kruat community development, Uttaradit province are as follows. The local governors should learn more about community development principles. They should be good role models for people in community. They should place importance on community participation and adapt themselves to local people and environments. The local governors should be flexible and opened-minded. There should be a community meeting in order to know the problems and find effective solutions, leading to best community practices.