Koh Samui’s local leaders and experts convened at Sala Phru Chaweng to strategize innovative urban planning and community development solutions. The transformative workshop, led by Mr. Apichit Jandaet, focused on empowering residents and creating sustainable strategies for improving quality of life on the island.
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Overview of the Workshop
On February 27, 2025, a pivotal workshop was held at Sala Phru Chaweng, Bo Phut Subdistrict, located in Koh Samui District, Surat Thani Province. The event was organized under the framework of the “Project for Improving the Quality of Life in Slum Communities and Housing Management for Fiscal Year 2025.” The workshop focused on developing guidelines for surveying quality of life data and urban community planning specifically catered to the Samui Subdistrict.
Purpose and Objectives
The core aim of the workshop was to empower community participation in the development process and foster cooperative problem-solving regarding housing issues on Koh Samui. By engaging a range of stakeholders, the workshop sought to develop sustainable solutions to improve residents’ quality of life, particularly in slum communities.
Key objectives included:
– Equipping participants with techniques to systematically collect and analyze quality of life data.
– Enhancing knowledge on urban community planning tailored to local conditions.
– Facilitating discussion and collaboration among municipal staff, community leaders, and the public.
– Identifying actionable strategies for housing management and urban development.
Key Participants
The workshop drew a diverse array of attendees, reflecting a comprehensive approach to community development. Participants included:
– Mr. Natthaphon Rattanarak, Deputy Mayor of Koh Samui City Municipality, who presided over the opening ceremony.
– Members of the municipal council.
– Heads of government departments and agencies.
– Staff from the Social Welfare Department.
– Community leaders and committee members.
– Interested members of the public and relevant officials.
Mr. Apichit Jandaet, a recognized expert in the field, conducted the first session, sharing his expertise on effective data surveying and urban planning strategies.
Workshop Activities and Content
The session titled “Guidelines for Surveying Quality of Life Data and Urban Community Planning in Samui Subdistrict, Session 1,” delivered by Mr. Apichit Jandaet, addressed several crucial topics:
– Understanding Quality of Life Indicators: Participants learned how to define and measure indicators such as health, education, housing, environment, and income.
– Survey Methodologies: The workshop introduced practical tools and techniques for collecting reliable and comprehensive data within the community.
– Community Mapping: Attendees were guided through participatory mapping exercises to identify pressing needs and resources within their areas.
– Urban Planning Principles: The session included foundational knowledge about sustainable urban planning, with a focus on inclusive development that addresses the unique challenges faced by slum communities.
– Collaborative Problem-Solving: Group discussions and activities encouraged participants to explore cooperative approaches to addressing housing and infrastructure issues.
Significance for Koh Samui
This workshop represents a proactive step by Koh Samui City Municipality towards addressing rapid urbanization and the associated challenges in housing and living conditions, particularly within vulnerable communities. By grounding solutions in accurate data and participatory planning, local authorities aim to create enduring improvements in quality of life. The initiative also strengthens ties between the municipal government, civil society, and residents, emphasizing the importance of inclusive governance.
Broader Context and Future Directions
Slum upgrading and quality of life improvement projects are increasingly recognized as essential to sustainable urban development in Thailand and beyond. Workshops such as this provide a model for integrating technical knowledge with grassroots participation. The strategies and insights generated during this event are expected to contribute to the formulation of effective policies and interventions in the upcoming fiscal year, with the potential to be adapted for other urban communities facing similar challenges.
Access to Additional Resources
For those interested in viewing photographs and highlights from the event, additional resources are available at this link.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ: Workshop on Guidelines for Surveying Quality of Life Data and Urban Community Planning in Samui Subdistrict
What were the main objectives of the workshop on urban community planning in Samui Subdistrict?
The primary objectives of the workshop were to empower community participation in the urban development process and foster collaborative problem-solving around housing issues on Koh Samui. The event aimed to:
– Equip participants with systematic techniques for collecting and analyzing quality of life data.
– Enhance knowledge of urban community planning tailored to local needs.
– Encourage discussion and cooperation among municipal staff, community leaders, and residents.
– Develop actionable strategies for housing management and sustainable urban development, especially for vulnerable communities.
Who participated in the workshop, and why was their involvement significant?
The workshop brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including the Deputy Mayor of Koh Samui, members of the municipal council, heads of government departments, social welfare staff, community leaders, and interested residents. Their involvement was crucial because it ensured that the planning and solutions reflected a broad range of perspectives and expertise. This inclusive approach strengthened ties between government authorities, civil society, and local residents, promoting effective and sustainable community development.
What key topics and activities were covered to improve quality of life and urban planning?
Key topics and activities addressed in the workshop included:
– Understanding Quality of Life Indicators: Learning how to measure factors like health, education, housing, environment, and income.
– Survey Methodologies: Training on practical tools for collecting reliable community data.
– Community Mapping: Engaging participants in mapping exercises to identify local needs and resources.
– Urban Planning Principles: Introducing sustainable and inclusive planning strategies tailored to slum communities.
– Collaborative Problem-Solving: Facilitating group activities to develop joint solutions for housing and infrastructure challenges.
These activities aimed to build participants’ capacities and lay the groundwork for data-driven, sustainable improvements in the quality of life on Koh Samui.
For more details and photos from the event, visit the resource link here.
