THE DEVELOPMENT OF BUDDHIST INTEGRATED PERFORMANCE COMPETENCY FOR LOCAL ADMINISTRATIVE ORGANIZATION PERSONNEL IN WANG NOI DISTRICT, PHRA NAKHON SI AYUTTHAYA PROVINCE

Abstract

Objectives of this research article were: 1. To examine the current state of performance competencies among personnel in Local Administrative Organizations in Wang Noi District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province 2. To investigate the factors influencing the development of performance competencies through Buddhist-integrated approaches, and 3. To propose effective development guidelines. A mixed-methods research design was employed. The quantitative research involved 197 participants selected through proportionate simple random sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire with a reliability coefficient (Cronbach’s alpha) of 0.935, and analyzed using descriptive statistics and stepwise multiple regression analysis. The qualitative research, data were collected by in-depth interviewing 14 key informants, and the data were analyzed using descriptive content interpretation.

The research findings revealed that: 1. The overall performance competency was rated at a high level (=3.79, S.D.=0.47); 2. Motivation and knowledge factors jointly predicted Buddhist-integrated performance competency development, accounting for 23 percent of the variance, while the Four Powers (Bala), particularly wisdom power. Panyabala. and Social Harmony Power, sangahabala, explained 17.2 percent and 3. The development of performance competency through Buddhist integration may be conceptualized as the Tree of Competency. The roots represent the foundational Dhamma principles known as the Four Bala: Panyabala, wisdom, Viriyabala, effort power. Anavajjabala, moral integrity, and Sangahabala, social harmony, which serve as internal driving forces that guide ethical and effective work performance. The trunk symbolizes the core dimensions of competency, including knowledge, skills, attitudes, and motivation, which form the essential foundation for professional development. The branches and fruits reflect desirable work behaviors such as achievement orientation, quality service, ethical conduct, and constructive teamwork. This model offered a sustainable approach to competency development grounded in Buddhist principles.