Bangkok: Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University (MCU), in collaboration with the Office of the Auditor General of Thailand, the Office of National Buddhism, and MCOT Public Company Limited, has initiated the "Providing Knowledge on Accounting for Income, Expenditure, and the Management of Temple Assets" project. The event took place at Chulalongkorn Rajavidyalaya University in Wang Noi District, aiming to enhance the financial management skills of temple representatives.
According to Thai News Agency, the project featured a special lecture delivered by Phra Phrom Wachirathirachan, Professor Dr., President of MCU, along with Mr. Montien Charoenphol, Auditor General, and Mrs. Kulisarap Boonthap, Deputy Auditor General. The lecture focused on crucial aspects of temple financial management, including estimation of income and expenses, methods for handling temple funds, controlling disbursements, and managing temple assets and procurement. The event was attended by 200-250 Sangha leaders or representatives.
Mr. Montien Charoenphol emphasized the role of the Office of the Auditor General (OAG) in providing knowledge about finance and promoting transparent accounting practices. This collaborative project aims to equip temples nationwide with the necessary skills for effective asset management.
The initiative highlights the importance of transparent accounting through the separation of fund types, ensuring accurate financial records. Profit funds, such as rental fees, donations, and property sales, must be documented with receipts, while charitable funds require certificates of appreciation. All funds should be deposited into the temple's bank account and used appropriately.
A significant policy proposal discussed during the event was the establishment of a national "Temple Accounting Manual." This manual would cater to large, medium, and small temples, introducing a centralized tracking system for financial data submission.
The overarching goal of this project is to instill a transparent and accountable financial management system in temples, utilizing modern technology and good governance principles. By doing so, it aims to support the mission of the Office of National Buddhism and lay the groundwork for a "model temple of good governance." This initiative seeks to restore faith among Buddhists by fostering trust in temple management systems, with potential for regional and national expansion.