Culture
Thailand’s Department of Religious Affairs Integrates Technology into Buddhist Education
The Department of Religious Affairs held an 'Open House' event at Wat Pho to modernize Buddhist Sunday School learning through technology and community collaboration.
On September 16, 2026, the Department of Religious Affairs, under the Ministry of Culture, hosted an 'Open House' event at Wat Phra Chetuphon (Wat Pho) in Bangkok. The event, led by Department Director-General Chaiyapol Suk-iam and senior clergy, focused on the modernization of Sunday Buddhist Education Centers (ศพอ.).
Central to the initiative is the integration of technology with traditional Buddhist teachings to create more engaging learning environments for children and youth. The department emphasized the 'Bawon' model—a collaborative framework involving homes, religious sites, and schools—to foster moral and ethical development. By leveraging digital tools, the department aims to improve the efficiency of these centers and ensure that youth receive a well-rounded education that balances academic knowledge with ethical values.
For residents and visitors, this initiative highlights a shift toward digital accessibility in traditional Thai religious spaces. While the event served as a platform for exchanging ideas and reviewing the performance of existing centers, the specific technological tools to be implemented across all centers remain to be confirmed. The department intends to use the feedback gathered during this session to refine its operational strategies for the 2026 fiscal year. This development reflects a broader trend of Thai institutions seeking to bridge the gap between ancient traditions and modern digital lifestyles.
