The Role of Women's Groups in Local Development in Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study the role of women's groups in local development in Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province, and 2) explore approaches to developing women's groups in local development in Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province. The qualitative research methodology involved 17 women's groups in local development, selected purposively. The tools used included in-depth interviews and inductive content analysis.

          The study findings were as follows:

          1) The role of women's groups in local development in Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province, revealed that women's groups played roles in political activities, election campaigning, voting, political participation, proposing local ordinances, developing development plans, education, religion, and culture, public health and the environment, sports and recreation, politics, economics, and society, administration, and community information dissemination.

          2) The development approach for women's groups in local development in Mueang District, Nakhon Sawan Province revealed that: 1) group leaders emphasize leadership, knowledge, vision, and non-self-interest, honesty, and good role models; 2) support for relevant agencies and interagency collaboration; and 3) internal group operational processes. There is an organizational structure, goals, planning and regulations of the organization. 4) Giving members complete freedom in their operations equally. 5) In terms of promoting members to develop themselves and provide knowledge to members, encouraging members to develop themselves and provide knowledge continuously. 6) In terms of personality development and public speaking presentations by developing personality and knowledge, especially public speaking. 7) In terms of career support for members, promoting the creation of group careers to create a self-reliant household economy.