THE ROLE OF PUBLIC SERVICE OF PHRA KRU KASEM NAWAKAN FOUNDATION, WAT LAEM SAI, TAMBOL BORYANG, AMPHER MUANG, SONGKHLA PROVINCE

Abstract

This article aims to 1) To examine the roles of the Phra Khru Kasem Nawakarn Foundation in providing public services; 2) To analyze the operational processes, strategies, and activities of the foundation that contribute to the quality of life of local people; and 3) To propose guidelines for enhancing the foundation’s role in delivering public services to the community. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected from documents, books, articles, and in-depth interviews with 15 purposively selected key informants, including Buddhist monks, foundation administrators, community leaders, staff/volunteers, and service recipients in the local area. Data collection techniques included in-depth interviews, while the analysis utilized content analysis in combination with SWOT analysis.

          The research findings revealed the following: 1) The Phra Khru Kasem Nawakarn Foundation, Wat Laem Sai, plays a crucial role in addressing various social issues by providing beneficial public services. Its mission is closely aligned with the promotion of Buddhist principles, namely the principles of good governance (Thamma-aphiwan), the Six Principles of Cordiality (Saraniya-dhamma), and the Four Bases of Social Solidarity (Sangahavatthu), which together contribute to strengthening community unity. 2) The SWOT analysis identified key issues in education, public health, inequality, and social welfare. The foundation has demonstrated effectiveness in addressing these challenges, thereby alleviating the hardships of the people and enhancing their well-being. 3) The proposed guidelines for enhancing the foundation’s role in public service provision focus on four major areas: (1) assisting the underprivileged, (2) promoting education and improving quality of life, (3) advancing basic public health services—such as producing and distributing the herbal medicinal oil Osot Thip (renamed “Sai Osot”) and providing basic medication, and (4) fostering community cooperation through volunteer activities