TAPPING INTO SENIOR CITIZENS IS A WAY OF SUPPORTING YOUNG PEOPLE




Older persons or senior citizens are a great asset to our country and the development of young people especially. How have we tapped into this natural resource? How can young people tap into the wealth of experience and expertise of the older generation?

Unfortunately what we may call a gulf lies between the two. It is the Intergenerational gap.

As a young person growing up, I barely got the opportunity to spend time with my grandparents as they were the closest senior citizens I could get to. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the company of the few others I encountered. It was not abnormal or surprising to find an older person encouraging me to take my studies seriously, or chastise me when I went wrong. The times I had to keep quiet and listen to their stories of old were countless, not to talk of lessons about my rich culture or proverbs that contained words of wisdom. I got to better understand why they initiated certain norms and for those that hampered development, it was easier explaining why they were not good and had to be abolished. These moments were priceless. Today the little I know about culture and social norms that enhance my development are to their credit.

Unfortunately this may not be the only area I need them. It is only a bit of the vast knowledge senior citizens have.

The 21st century comes with its own challenges. The presence of technology and new ways of doing things has certainly added to the wider gap of intergenerational relationship. Some young people feel older people talk too much. On the other hand, many older ones think today’s youth do not respect. There is undoubtedly a need to get the intergenerational dialogue going. This can promote development for the younger generation.

Another platform where we can tap into the rich expertise of senior citizens is on the academic front. With young people going into different career fields or paths, how can they tap into the expertise of the trail blazers of the sectors? How can young people dialogue with people who have carved a niche for themselves in particular areas in the field of academia?  Also at a time when there is talk about diversification into technical and vocational areas to ensure rapid development, this is the time to have engagements with senior citizens who made their mark in such sectors. Do we always have to read their works in history books after they are long dead or as part of their tribute? How do we create enabling environments where they can talk to young people and share knowledge with them on regular basis?

For younger ones taking up positions, it is vital to go back to senior citizens for help and direction. It is a fact that they have it all and we cannot hide from it. Tapping and benefitting from these experiences can only help us build better what has been started and together with available technology we stand to gain so much.

We can never talk about development and leave out intergenerational dialogue or relationship. Whiles one generation is emerging and has a lot to learn, the senior citizen class has passed that stage and have a lot to offer as they are leaving the system or have already left. From the family to communities and the nation as a whole, efforts must be made to ensure intergenerational dialogue that is mutually beneficial especially to the young person. These are great partners for development. Learning from one another and sharing with one another. The good thing is that our senior citizens will not feel neglected. They will feel appreciated and we know what a good cheer can do for people in that age group. Above all it will promote development.


I speak regularly about children and youth rights but I believe seeing to the rights of older persons is one way of still supporting young people’s rights because they will be there to support the young ones.


Article by Esenam Amuzu
GBCONLINE