Elders urge sustained intergenerational dialogues With Rwandan youth, 2022 IYD
It was in line with this year’s International Youth Day, observed Friday globally under the theme, “Intergenerational Solidarity: Creating a World for All Ages.”
Most of the things the youth say and do today, she said, is in contrast with what their elders want to hear or see and vice versa. “It’s hard to address such conflict without bringing the two parties together.”
On the other hand, it’s hard for a parent to approach a child knowing they usually do not understand them. None of the two parties has an issue; it’s that everyone is telling the truth from their perspective.”
Organised by Never Again Rwanda, the conversation also aimed at helping the two generations explore strategies to foster healthy and sustainable interactions and relations between them.
She noted: “There is also a need to go to the grassroots level and teach people about intergenerational solidarity. We need to support local clubs and organisations so that they can spread this awareness.”
The younger generation say the older do not want to go with what’s trending while the older say that what’s trending is against our culture. We need to have a sober conversation so we can reach a common ground,” he said.
“Promoting intergenerational solidarity and cooperation can help respond to some of the current societal challenges, through making the best use of what all of us can contribute regardless of our age,” she noted. “This would help bring about real economic and social benefits for all.”
He added: “There should be community dialogues for the two generations so that everyone can know and understand the role they can play towards the country’s development. Then, youth will know what they need from elders and vice versa.”
Christiane Rulinda, Deputy Executive Director in charge of Programs Development and Quality Assurance at Never Again Rwanda, observed that there is imbalance between the youth and the elder generations, including those in decision-making spheres.