THE ROLE OF ACADEMIC ADMINISTRATION IN CAREER PREPARATION EDUCATION FOR THAI STUDENTS

Aims and Objectives: This academic article aims to present how social changes affect secondary school students who lack clarity in their higher education decisions due to not knowing their aptitudes and interests. In this era of rapid volatility, educational institutions must play a role in preparing students for future careers. Academic administration is crucial in establishing operational plans through to measurement and evaluation.

Study Setting and Design: This is an autoethnography which seeks to describe the educational management practices for career preparation in Thailand

Recommendations: The development of academic administration in career preparation education for secondary school students comprises these key components: 1) Educational Planning: Administrators must study global changes affecting education, develop teachers understanding and essential 21^st century competencies 2) Academic Leadership: Having clear academic goals aligned with urgent societal needs 3) Curriculum Development: Focusing on developing students career aptitudes for the 21^st century 4) Instructional Management: Incorporating activities where students learn from professionals in various fields  5) Participative Management: Involving stakeholders in coordination 6) Educational Media and Technology Development 7) Educational Supervision: Monitoring operations and continuously improving educational quality for students career preparation 8) Measurement and Evaluation and 9) Teamwork among administrators and all stakeholder groups.

Conclusion: Social changes, both internationally and within Thai society, are inevitable over time. However, since the world experiences rapid changes in technology, economy, world events, and global ideals, educators must continuously adjust and establish contingency plans. As a result, academic administration must be prepared to assist and create chances for students to find themselves, stressing collaborative management across many sectors in delivering education that focuses on learner skills for the future. This method enables students to keep secure livelihoods while still developing into excellent human resources capable of moving the nation ahead. This academic management model emphasizes that, while short-term courses for lifetime learning exist, basic education continues to play an important role in building career awareness and orientation. Educational institutions must transform into secure and progressive learning environments for new-generation learners, with academic administration actively encouraging self-discovery and skill development in line with future employment demands. Education, via joint management and stakeholder participation, may successfully educate students not just for secure employment but also for important national contributions.