SKILL DEVELOPMENT OF GOVERNMENT PERSONNEL IN THE MODERN TECHNOLOGY ERA

Abstract

This academic article aimed to present approaches for developing skills of Thai government personnel in the context of Thailand 4.0, which drove the economy through innovation, amid changes in population structure transitioning to an aging society and rapid technological advancement. The study was found that the International Labour Organization predicts that in the next 20 years, 44% of jobs in Thailand risk being replaced by automation and AI. The Thai bureaucratic system faces significant adaptation challenges, with critical digital skill gaps identified: most CIOs had not completed specialized training courses for information technology executives, agencies lack budget and technology personnel, and most training programs lack proper evaluation. The research proposed a framework for developing Government 4.0 in three dimensions: 1. Open & Connected Government, 2. Citizen-Centric Government, and 3. Smart & High Performance Government, relying on three success factors: collaboration from all sectors, innovation creation, and digital transformation. Human resource development in the public sector should focus on upskilling and reskilling to accommodate changes by establishing skill development plans aligned with the strategic transition to a digital government. It was essential to develop both executives to have digital leadership and personnel to have technological skills, especially in data analysis, cybersecurity, and application of modern technologies. Online learning serves as an important channel but must consider critical success factors including time flexibility, equipment readiness, and organizational support.