Leadership of Local Executives in Preventing the Outbreak of Covid-19 in Thung Si Subdistrict, Rong Kwang District, Phrae Province

Abstract

The purposes of this research article were 1) to study the leadership level of local executives; 2) to study the relationship between Iddhipada and the leadership of local executives; 3) to study the problems and obstacles and recommendations regarding the leadership of local executives in preventing the Outbreak of Covid-19 in Thung Si Subdistrict, Rong Kwang District, Phrae Province. This was a mixed methods research. In terms of qualitative research, data were collected by in-depth interviews with 9 key informants using descriptive content analysis techniques. Quantitative research was conducted by distributing questionnaires to a sample of 354 people. Data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation. The results of the research found that 1) the leadership level of local executives in Phrae in terms of Iddhipada, overall, was at a high level (= 3.67, S.D.=0.48) and the leadership level of local executives in 4 areas was found to be overall at a high level (=3.63, S.D. = 0.48);  2) relationship between Iddhipada and leadership, overall had a positive relationship at a quite high level (R=.935**) with statistical significance at the 0.01 level; 3) problems and obstacles found that village leaders still lacked understanding, knowledge about epidemics. Leaders still didn't have much knowledge and skills in performing work well enough. For suggestions, it was found that training on leadership should be provided in village administration regarding prevention of the outbreak of Covid-19. Knowledgeable personnel should be provided in terms of skills and effective practice and effectiveness for village leaders