Strategic Leadership based on the Enlightenment Factors (Bojjhaïga) for Educational Administrators

Abstract

This article is written as a result of the author’s research, incorporating a wide range of sources such as books, academic papers, research articles, and critical reviews from both domestic and international perspectives. It focuses on integrating Buddhist principles with modern management science, particularly in relation to strategic leadership, the Bojjhaïga: enlightenment factors, and contemporary educational administration. Given the current societal context, where volatility, uncertainty, and rapid changes across various dimensions of the global environment have become the norm, people are constantly confronted with unpredictable situations. These challenges often affect educational institutions, potentially leading to disruptions in operational plans and reduced effectiveness in achieving educational goals. In such a complex and fast-changing environment, the role of educational administrators is crucial. They are tasked with navigating these challenges efficiently, which requires them to possess a variety of skills, knowledge, and foresight. Effective administrators must demonstrate acute problem-solving abilities, strategic thinking, and the capacity to remain calm and composed in the face of challenges. Moreover, they must have a profound understanding of both internal and external organizational dynamics. A key skill for modern educational leaders is empathy that shows the ability to understand and resonate with the physical and emotional states of others without being self-centered. Administrators must guide their institutions by setting clear visions, missions, and objectives, while also being flexible enough to adjust plans in accordance with changing circumstances. In order to achieve sustainable success, administrators must integrate Buddhist principles with modern management practices, drawing on the Bojjhaïga. These seven factors contributing to the ethical and sustainable growth of educational organizations. The integration of Buddhist principles with modern management theories enables educational leaders to adapt to contemporary challenges, ensuring the efficiency and effectiveness of educational administration. By cultivating strategic leadership through the lens of Buddhist wisdom, administrators can create educational environments that thrive in harmony with both spiritual and practical principles. The framework of the Bojjhaïga provides administrators with tools for fostering internal and external growth, enabling them to lead with empathy, clarity, and foresight. This comprehensive approach ensures that institutions can navigate uncertainties while maintaining a strong ethical foundation, ultimately leading to long-term, sustainable success.