59-05-032 Proceeding

109 Proceedings of the Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn Congress with an opportunity, not only to learn fromRDSCs, but also to apply technologies and knowledge transferred fromRDSCs in their own occupation and areas in order to become self-reliant (RDPB, 2004). Through the application of knowledge, His Majesty has put a great emphasis on results of the research and experimentation that are responsive to the diverse socio-geographical conditions in every part of the country (UNDP, 2006). IV. Royal Development Study Centers: The Knowledge Extension At present, there are six centers scattered in four regions of the country representing the region’s different local characteristics and problems according to each geographical and social conditions (RDPB, 2001). RDSCs act as a place for conducting study, research and experiments to search for development methods suitable for various conditions. The centers also work as the “natural livingmuseum” and“model of success” forothers to follow.The styleof knowledge extension of RDSCs in a form of one-stop service that provides results of research and experimentation as well as demonstration of the operational success in different fields particularly in agricultural areas including soil and water management, livestock, fishery along with the knowledge in the areas of social and occupational development. This way, those who are interested can learn everything in one place and can gain knowledge in a convenient and prompt manner. Each center welcomes coordination and assistance from various concerned government agencies on planning and management process to yield effective works. Its management strategy stresses on inviting as many areas of knowledge as possible. It shows that it is possible that one field can support and compliment the other fields of development that represents a systematic integration of knowledge, operation, and management. Therefore, the centers provide a good example of a multidisciplinary concept which generates optimum benefits for certain area. The focus is rather on integration of a variety of bodies of knowledge and development activities than the concentration on the only one development area. Since the centers involve different concerned agencies, RDSCs act as a meeting place for exchanging knowledge and information among concerned parties including academics, development workers and the local people. Farmers and interested public are expected to apply the knowledge obtained from the successful results of the study, research and experimentation conducted by the center in their real life. The theory is integrated with practice in order to be used as the source of knowledge for those who wish to apply (Bunbongkarn, 2013). Inorder to be able touplift their standardof living, RDSCs alsoprovide knowledge to farmers and interested public on Sufficiency Economy as well as act as a good example for the public to follow. In order to respond to the moderation principle, since the centers offer one-stop service, it saves time, budget and energy of the interested public and farmers who wish to gain complete package of knowledge to improve their livelihood. Moreover, the centers encourage farmers to make use out of the farm resources as much as possible. For example, farmers are shown on how