Model Social and Environmental Responsibility Promotion Activities Based on Buddhist Principles for Students in Educational Institutions in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province

Abstract

This research examined an activity model for promoting students’ social and environmental responsibility based on Buddhist principles in educational institutions in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. The objectives were: (1) to investigate existing activities that promote students’ social and environmental responsibility in educational institutions in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; (2) to develop an activity model based on Buddhist principles to enhance such responsibility among students; (3) to implement the developed activity model; and (4) to evaluate the effectiveness of the model.
The findings revealed that the analysis of current conditions highlighted the importance of activities promoting social and environmental responsibility in improving educational quality and fostering positive awareness among students, particularly in encouraging participation in environmental protection and conservation within Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province. Various activities were implemented, including tree planting, public area clean-up campaigns, and initiatives to reduce plastic usage. These activities not only contributed to improving the environment but also enhanced students’ teamwork skills. The developed activity model encompassed seven key components: (1) educational promotion, (2) participation in community activities, (3) life skills development, (4) environmental conservation, (5) awareness building, (6) creativity development, and (7) continuous evaluation and improvement. The model also strengthened collaboration among schools, communities, and relevant organizations.
The implementation of the activity model demonstrated that students exhibited a satisfactory level of social responsibility. The integration of Buddhist principles–such as loving-kindness (mettā), compassion (karuṇā), and equanimity (upekkhā)–contributed to the development of students’ behaviors, encouraging generosity and responsibility toward others. Continuous evaluation enabled the activities to be further refined and improved. In addition, the study proposed guidelines for promoting educational activities and training programs that emphasize social responsibility, fostering cooperation among multiple sectors, supporting government involvement, utilizing communication technologies, and conducting ongoing evaluations to enhance social and environmental responsibility at higher levels.
The evaluation of the activity model indicated that students demonstrated significant understanding and participation in various activities, particularly those related to environmental conservation and social assistance. The findings further suggest that integrating Buddhist principles into public activities helps cultivate public consciousness and pride in community participation. Students perceived that their involvement in these activities not only contributed to their personal development but also supported the development of their communities and society as a whole.