Education and Moral Development: The Impact of Buddhist Schools on Thai Youth

Abstract

Monastic education has long been a cornerstone of moral and spiritual development in Thailand, playing a pivotal role in shaping the ethical foundations of Thai youth. This paper explores the historical significance of monastic schools, emphasizing their influence on character building, social responsibility, and the integration of Buddhist values such as mindfulness and compassion into daily life. Despite the challenges posed by modernization, limited resources, and competition from secular education, monastic schools continue to offer a unique blend of traditional Buddhist teachings and modern academic curricula. The paper also highlights current reforms aimed at integrating secular subjects and strategies to engage youth in a digital age. The enduring role of monastic education in fostering national moral leadership and ethical societal development is discussed, emphasizing its potential to shape the future of Thai society.