EDUCATIONAL MANAGEMENT IN THE FACE OF DEMOGRAPHIC CRISIS

Abstract

The demographic crisis has become a significant phenomenon affecting Thailand’s educational system, particularly the continuous decline in birth rates, which has resulted in a decreasing number of school-age children. This situation directly impacts educational administration, especially small-sized schools that face declining student enrollment, insufficient budgets, teacher shortages, and the risk of school consolidation or closure. This academic article aims to examine the effects of the demographic crisis on educational management, analyze concepts and approaches to school administration in an era of population decline, and propose innovative strategies to enhance the sustainability of educational institutions. The study is based on document analysis, academic concepts, research studies, and data from relevant national and international organizations.                       The findings reveal that educational management amid the demographic crisis must shift from traditional administrative approaches toward innovative management models emphasizing digital technology integration, participatory administration, collaborative networking, and community-based school development. These approaches can enhance educational effectiveness and reduce resource limitations. Furthermore, school administrators are required to possess innovative leadership, visionary thinking, change management skills, and the ability to apply educational innovations in accordance with the contexts of schools and local communities. Sustainable development of small-sized schools should focus on improving learner quality, strengthening school identity, and promoting participation from all sectors to ensure that educational institutions can continue to operate effectively amid future demographic changes.