Sustainable Development of Buddhist Leadership among Dhammayuttika Nikaya Monastic Leaders in Surin Province

Abstract

This article has three objective:1) to study the leadership concepts of Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province; 2) to study the conditions promoting the leadership development of Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province; and 3 to analyze the model for sustainable leadership development of Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province. Data were collected through documentary research, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The key informants consisted of Sangha Administrators and executives from the Surin Provincial office of Buddhism. The collected data were analyzed and presented using descriptive analysis.

The study results revealed that: 1) Regarding the current leadership concepts of the Sangha Administrators of the Dhammayuttika Nikaya in Surin Province, it was found that each Administrator possesses varying levels of knowledge. Their decision-making abilities lack decisiveness due to an inability to keep pace with and fully understand the context of secular society, along with a lack of legal knowledge relevant to Sangha Administrators. Currently, performing their duties requires thinking outside the box while integrating the science of worldly knowledge and the discipline of monastic codes Dhamma-Vinaya into their Administration to steer the organization in a better direction.2) Concerning the conditions promoting leadership development, it was found that a comprehensive understanding of their administrative duties, including the six aspects of Sangha affairs, is crucial. This is achieved by encouraging Sangha Administrators to acquire knowledge regarding the roles and duties of governing monks. They must be continuously eager to learn, courageous in facing emerging novelties, and adaptable to changes in the era of globalization. 3) As for the model for sustainable leadership development, it was found that Sangha Administrators must possess a profound understanding of their duties, moral integrity, and Buddhist leadership traits to serve as a spiritual refuge for the community. These qualities should be applied within the context of the community and the temple to foster sustainable development. Therefore, the current leadership model of Sangha Administrators must reflect diversity based on the unique identity, experience, and body of knowledge of each monk.