Youth Participation Processes in the Activities of Subdistrict Administrative Organizations: A Case Study of Wang Phaya Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Raman District, Yala Province

Abstract

The objectives of this research are: (1) to examine youth participation processes in the activities of the Wang Phaya Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Raman District, Yala Province; and (2) to propose guidelines for promoting youth participation suitable for the local context. This study employs a qualitative research approach, utilizing in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, non-participant observation, and documentary research. Data were collected from a total of 9 key informants. The gathered data were analyzed using content analysis.

          The findings revealed that: (1) the process of youth participation in activities of the Wang Phaya Subdistrict Administrative Organization can be explained through four key stages: participation in decision-making, implementation, benefit-sharing, and evaluation. Youth participation was found to be at a moderate to low level in some stages, particularly in decision-making and evaluation, where opportunities for youth involvement remained limited. In contrast, participation in implementation was at the highest level, mainly in the form of attending activities organized by the agency; however, continuity and youth-initiated activities were still lacking. Regarding benefit-sharing, youth gained advantages in terms of skills, experiences, and social relationships, although opportunities were not equally distributed across all groups (2) in terms of guidelines to promote youth participation, the study suggests improvements in several aspects, including increasing opportunities for youth to express opinions and participate in decision-making, designing activities that align with youth interests and ensure continuity, creating motivation, and providing systematic opportunities for youth to engage in monitoring and evaluation. Furthermore, support from community leaders and local organizations, as well as effective communication, are essential factors in encouraging greater youth participation, which will ultimately contribute to sustainable community development.