Strategy for Buddhism Propagation of the National Of f ice of Buddhism in the next Decade (2016 - 2025 A.D.)

Abstract

The objectives of this dissertation were to study the operation state of Buddhist propagation and the Buddhist propagation strategy undertaken by the National Office of Buddhism in the next decade. The EDFR technic was employed in conducting the research. The data were collected from seventeen specialists through semi-structural open-ended interview form and the five-rating scale questionnaire based on the Likert scale. The qualitative data were analyzed by content analysis and content sysnthesis, and quantitative data were analyzed by computerized program, median and interquartile range.The research results were found as follows:1. The propagation of Buddhism conducted by the National Office of Buddhism did not cover the whole propagation procedure,reflected in minimal scale with the changing situation of the world and in passive procedure rather than in active one. Moreover, budget,personnel, modern technology and innovation
all were in shortage. This included the limitation of proper cooperation with other related organizations and the absence of the measures to produce competent staff. 2. The strategy for propagation of Buddhism by the National Office of Buddhism in the next decade was found to be developed as follows:Staff members should comprise bothmonks and laymen, well-trained and well-versed in Dhamma knowledge and worldly knowledge, in modern technology, languages, and public relation. The staff database, administration structure, competency evaluation measures,
and network building should be brought into practice.The Dhamma contents to be taught should be the basic principle neededfor daily life and related to economic and social development. Dhamma study policy and Dhamma principles should be pushed forward as the national Dhamma principles. Monks should be supported and facilitated in learning Dhamma, and Dhamma courses and principles should be designed for learning in a standard level, and moreover, they should be translated into various languages. Formats and methods should be designed to suit various traditional and cultural aspects, covering family life, life style and social surroundings. Propagation strategy should be systematized, proactive and focused on niche market.
As for communication, monk’s behaviors could still create interest and faith of people. Temples and modern ICT should beused as the media through which the spreading should be more effective. The cooperation of experts concerned is needed. For the support aspect, sufficient budget, high-caliber staff, strong network, accurate information together with TV and radio stations for the particular purpose are required.