DEVELOPING LOCAL SCHOOL ADMINISTRATORS THROUGH NETWORK LEADERSHIP ROLES BASED ON BUDDHIST PRINCIPLES

Abstract

This article presents a development approach for local school administrators through the integration of network leadership with Buddhist Dhamma principles. It focuses on developing leaders with the ability to connect and build collaborative networks between educational institutions, local government organizations, and communities to enhance educational quality in the context of 21st-century Thai society. Current education faces complex challenges, such as student diversity and technological changes. This requires the role of school administrators to be not only organizational managers but also change leaders who can effectively foster collaboration and innovation. The article analyzes the importance of network leadership, which emphasizes collaboration and building good relationships among various stakeholders, using Buddhist Dhamma principles as a guide to strengthen leaders' virtues and ethics. These principles include Sangahavatthu 4 (four principles of service) to build and maintain relationships, Iddhipada 4 (four paths to accomplishment) as a driving force, and Brahma Vihara 4 (four divine abodes) to build charisma and credibility for leaders. The integration of these concepts will enable administrators to build strong and sustainable networks. It also proposes policy and practical recommendations for the future development of school administrators, emphasizing the creation of network support mechanisms and curriculum development that integrates network leadership with Buddhist Dhamma principles, enabling administrators to lead Thai education to sustainable success.