Application guidelines in applying Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) for the farmers in Djakotomey district, Benin

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate effective guidelines for applying the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP) to enhance the quality of life (QoL) of farmers the Djakotomey District, Republic of Benin. This research drew lessons from the experiences of 17 selected farmers from the Huay Tong community, Mae Wang District, Chiang Mai, Thailand. The research employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative methods including questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions. In the Republic of Benin, data were gathered from 24 farmers in Djakotomey District who underwent vocational and agricultural training using the SEP concept, facilitated by experts from the Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA) between 2019 and 2022. In Thailand, lessons from the Huay Tong farmers revealed key success factors, including: 1) capacity building through active engagement in training activities, particularly from the Royal Project; 2) knowledge dissemination on agricultural practices, herbal medicine, and food within the community, 3) production of organic fertilizers to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce costs; and 4) enhanced financial management skills. The study observed a significant improvement (P<0.05) in the QoL perception among Huay Tong farmers over time, with scores rising from 1.74±0.104 to 4.67±0.063 on a 5-point scale. In the Republic of Benin, the study identified several factors that influence the adoption of the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy (SEP): 1) capacity building through participation in activities at community learning centers; 2) effective financial management practices; 3) adoption of innovative agricultural techniques; and 4) understanding and integration of SEP principles into daily routines. Following vocational and agricultural training under the SEP concept, there was a notable improvement (P<0.05) in the quality of life (QoL) perception of farmers in Djakotomey District, with scores rising from 1.91±0.239 to 3.97±0.300 on a scale of 5. A statistically significant correlation was found between the perception of QoL and the understanding of SEP in both communities, represented by the equation QoL = 1.320 + 0.663 SEP (r2 = 0.624, P < 0.05). In conclusion, the adoption of SEP practices led to an improved perception of QoL among farmers. Based on these findings, the study recommends the following guidelines for effective SEP implementation in the Republic Benin: 1) comprehensive understanding and adoption of SEP principles to drive sustainable development; 2) vocational and agricultural training activities using SEP as principal concepts; 3) promotion of knowledge sharing and community empowerment; 4) development of financial management skills for stability; and 5) establishment of partnerships between government and community entities.