HUMAN CAPITAL DEVELOPMENT THROUGH BUDDHISM: EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FOR NOVICES IN THAILAND IN THE DIGITAL AGE

Abstract

This academic article aims to study the development of human capital through Buddhist teachings and the educational opportunities available to novice monks in Thailand in the digital era. The findings of the study indicate that ordaining as a novice monk is a process of preparing religious personnel with both academic qualifications and maturity to serve as capable successors of the Buddhist faith. This process ensures that they can become true pillars for the Buddhist community. Thus, the true purpose of ordaining as a novice monk is similar to that of ordaining as a fully ordained monk, which is to prepare them to be future religious successors and to achieve liberation, reducing defilements and living peacefully in accordance with the ultimate goal of life in Buddhism, which is Nirvana. As for the education provided to novice monks, it is called Phra Paliyathamm (Buddhist Studies), which focuses on academic learning in Buddhism. Currently, the curriculum is divided into three parts: 1. The general education department, which follows the curriculum set by the Ministry of Education, similar to that of regular schools. Nowadays, there are also Buddhist universities offering courses in both Buddhist studies and general academic subjects. 2. The Thamma department, which includes three levels of study: Nakthamma Tri (Beginner Level), Nakthamma So (Intermediate Level), and Nakthamma Ek (Advanced Level). 3. The Pali department, which involves studying Buddhist scriptures written in the Pali language, with the curriculum divided into levels from PAl 1-2 up to PAli 9.