"Khan Craftsmen: Challenges and obstacles to the process of transmitting knowledge in Khan-making families in Ban Si Kaeo, Si Kaeo Subdistrict, Mueang District, Roi Et Province

Abstract

The purposes of the study - Khan Crafting Artisans – Challenges and Obstacles to the Knowledge Transmission of Khan Crafting in Ban Si Kaeo, Si Kaeo Subdistrict, Mueang District, Roi Et Province are to examine the current status of knowledge transmission in Khan crafting among families in Ban Si Kaeo, Si Kaeo Subdistrict, Mueang District, Roi Et Province and to Investigate the problems and obstacles in the process of transmitting knowledge of Khan crafting in Ban Si Kaeo, Si Kaeo Subdistrict, Mueang District, Roi Et Province. The data were collected by the process document analysis, observations, and in-depth interviews. The research employs qualitative research methods and content analysis. The study's findings are as follows.

The process of transmitting Khan crafting knowledge in Ban Si Kaeo has been ongoing since ancient times. A survey revealed that there were 240 Khan crafting households, with 80% engaging in Khan crafting as their primary occupation. However, Khan crafting has seen a significant decline, with only four families still engaged in this occupation.

In terms of the impacts on the transmission of Khan crafting knowledge, several issues can be highlighted. First, migration and relocation have shifted people’s interests towards other occupations. Second, there's increased competition in the Khan market. Thirdly, notable cultural shifts are underway. Additionally, families are now prioritizing education, sending their children for secondary school and higher education. As a result, the younger generation has become less interested in inheriting the art of Khan crafting. The scarcity of materials and equipment, particularly the bamboo "Hei" used in Khan crafting, which must be sourced from the provinces of Mukdahan and Laos, has made production increasingly challenging.

Keywords: Khan craftsman, knowledge transmitting processes, Khan-making families, Ban Si Kaeo, Roi Et Province