Social Capital and Implementation Effects: Participatory Action Research for Poverty Alleviation Through the Earthworm Fertilizer Pilot Project, Mayo District, Pattani Province

Abstract

Addressing poverty remains a significant challenge in today's society. It is listed as the first mission among the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which are to be adopted by all developed and developing countries. Thailand’s poverty rate has been rising in recent years, with many provinces facing poverty and inequality, including Pattani, Thailand's most poverty-stricken province. The main objective of this article is to study the social capital available in the community and the impact of participatory action research (PAR) for poverty alleviation under the Earthworm Fertilizer Pilot Project in Kor Lae village, Mayo District, Pattani Province, Thailand. The results showed that important social capital leading to a successful implementation process includes human resources in the community, trust, efficient group representation, and a cooperation network. The major outcomes at the group level are community members achieving self-sustainability in the production of organic fertilizers for agricultural use, reducing household expenses, and earning income from the sale of vermicomposting and other related products. In addition, the main outcomes at the social level include the incorporation of ready-to-use equipment with the fertilizer production facility, the establishment of an information and knowledge board, and the establishment of a learning center on worm manure production that can serve as a model for other communities.