Scenario of Mahacholalongkorn Rajavidyalaya Unversity in The Next (2016-2026)

Abstract

This study was aimed to determine its future figure of Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU) in the next decade (B.E. 2559-2569).  The study was divided into three phases as follows. 1) To study documents and context of MCU as well as the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. It was also used lessons learned from the three campuses which were the best practice included Wang Noi, Chiang Mai, and Phayao. Those three campuses were talented in educational management for excellence. 2) To simulate Scenario of MCU in possible direction by using the techniques of Ethnographic Delphi Futures Research (EDFR) with 20 experts. 3) To formulate the future figure of MCU by creating a strategic plan, analyzing the impact of the strategic plan, drawing a draft of future figure, and conducting a feasibility study through the focus group discussion of 10 experts.

                   The results found that the MCU context was a Buddhist University teaching about the Buddhist to monks and laypeople in the Bachelor, Master and Doctoral Degree. The MCU consisted of 10 campuses, eight priest institutes, and seven joined colleges; and the MCU was an autonomous entity. SWOT Analysis revealed that Strength: the MCU was known as the Buddhist University with campuses in several provinces focusing on participles of Buddhism, as well as research and community service in the Buddhist clergy that benefited the community and society. Weakness: because of no selection systems, learners of each year were different in fundamental knowledge; interaction between institution and communities was not systematic, so that the research was less integration. Opportunity: the MCU was high social capitals, therefore, the MCU could access to financial support of governmental agencies, monkhood, and international budgetary clergy. Threat: the MCU was shortage of lecturers whose academic qualifications met the majors’ requirement of the Higher Educational Commission.

                   The analysis of educational management for effectiveness and excellence showed that the success was based on the systematization, involvement of beneficiaries, and awareness of its value. In addition, the results emphasized that the MCU trended to respond to needs of the leaners and society in undergraduate and graduate study, and also the short courses of many programs.