Competency of Local Administrative Organization Administrators in Nakhon Phanom Province.

Abstract

          The study of the competencies of local administrative organization administrators is a crucial factor in enhancing and upgrading local governance to effectively meet the needs of the public and promote sustainable development. This research aimed to: (1) examine the competency levels of local administrative organization administrators in Nakhon Phanom Province, (2) investigate the factors influencing these competencies, and (3) propose guidelines for developing the competencies of such administrators. The research employed a mixed-methods design. The quantitative component involved 267 administrators from local administrative organizations in Nakhon Phanom Province, with the sample size determined using Taro Yamane’s formula.      The research tool was a questionnaire with an Index of Item-Objective Congruence (IOC) of 0.99 and a reliability coefficient of 0.96. Statistical methods used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, standard deviation, and multiple regression analysis, with a significance level set at 0.05. The qualitative component involved 16 local administrative executives in Nakhon Phanom Province, selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected using a set of research-guided questions for focus group discussions and analyzed using content analysis.
        The findings were as follows: 1) the overall competency level of local administrative organization administrators in Nakhon Phanom Province was high; 2) the factors influencing their competencies included technology, personal attributes, environment, and organizational aspects. These four independent variables collectively accounted for 28.20% of the variance, with statistical significance at the 0.05 level; and 3) the study suggests that efforts to develop the competencies of local administrative executives should consider the specific context of the area—such as its geographical location bordering neighboring countries, its cultural diversity among ethnic groups, and its economy, which requires cooperation from all sectors. A systematic approach to competency development that is closely aligned with the local context is essential to enhancing the effectiveness of local governance in truly meeting the needs of the population. Recommendations for improving executive competencies emphasize the use of technology to increase efficiency and transparency, restructuring organizational systems for greater flexibility, and integrating technology with local culture to support grassroots economic development and strengthen the leadership role of local administrators in the digital era.