Sensitization Programme on Promoting Inter-Generational Bonding held in Assam University

way2barak, March 3: Department of Social Work and NSS Cell, Assam University, Silchar in collaboration with National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India organized a Sensitization Programme on Promoting Intergenerational Bonding with Students and Scholars of Assam University, Silchar. The event showcased an array of distinguished speakers including Prof. Amrit Lal Ghosh, Department of Business Administration, Assam University and Dr. Partha Adhikari, Principal, Pranabananda International School, Silchar. The inaugural programme was attended by Prof. Tarun Bikash Sukai, Head Department of Social Work, Prof. M. Gangabhushan, from Department of Social Work and Programme Coordinator, NSS Cell, Dr. Chetan Khobragade and Dr. Shubhadeep Roychodhury, Programme Officers, NSS Units of Assam University. The programme brought together enthusiastic participation of students, scholars, and faculty from various colleges and departments at Assam University, Silchar, providing a platform for diverse perspectives and constructive discussions. The event was inaugurated with lighting of lamp by the dignitaries present.

 Prof. M. Gangabhushan through his welcome speech articulated the significance of the sensitization programme particularly highlighting how rapid technological advancements, urbanization have widened and increased the complexities of generation gap. Additionally, he discussed how digital lifestyles have reshaped communication leading to reducing interpersonal communication and increasing social isolation among elderly. He reiterated that as change agents, NSS volunteers can play a pivotal role not only to address the generation gap in their own family level, but also to work in the communities to address the issues that give rise to generation divide.

Further, Prof. Tarun Bikash Sukai, Head. Department of Social Work highlighted that the elderly are the epitome of knowledge and wisdom. They hold invaluable life experiences and insights that is essential to recognise and give them the love and respect that is significant to the society. The spirit of working with elderly need to be inculcated among the youth by respecting their parents and their unconditional love for the children. He emphasised the need for promoting the motto of NSS i.e. “Not Me, But You” and work for the greater cause.

 The first session delivered by Prof. Amrit Lal Ghosh offered a unique perspective on the self and self-thought and its role in intergenerational communication.

 Prof. Ghosh emphasized on understanding oneself which is key in bringing peace to the external world. Drawing on the principles of yama and niyama, the session stressed on the importance of moving from untruth to truth. This process will help in bringing purity of mind, speech and body. He suggested youth to inculcate the value of selflessness that would foster harmonious relationships with people of all ages helping in reducing the gap and misunderstandings between generations. The session aimed at building inner peace as the foundation for building a better interpersonal relationship within the families and society at a broader level.

  Furthermore, the second session by Dr. Partha Adhikari delved deep into questioning the strengthening the connection between academics and society. The session highlighted how modern education through formal, informal and non-formal education can help in reflective thinking and address cultural shifts that impact family dynamics and social relationships. The session also emphasized on the concept of Shraddhavan labhate jnanam through which intergenerational bonding can be nurtured through shared learning experiences. In this approach, the elderly can pass their wisdom and traditional knowledge to younger generations that would foster growth and understanding.

 The programme gave platform to the students from various affiliated colleges namely Gurucharn College, Cachar College, Manmohan Ghosh Anil Das Memorial College, West Silchar College and students from various departments namely Department of Agriculture Engineering, Dept of Performing Arts, CEE and Department of Education.

  Certificates were distributed to the participants along with Books on Swami Vivekanand as token of appreciation in the concluding session. Prof. Subhabrata Dutta and Mr. Ajit Kumar Jena, faculty from Department of Social Work were present in the event to motivate the participants. The programme was anchored by Ms. Antara Ghoshal, research scholar, Department of Social Work.

The event proved to be a valuable learning experience for all attendees, providing insights into the evolving nature of communication between generations. A key takeaway from the event was the need to integrate values such as empathy, understanding, and patience into our daily interactions with elderly people that would strengthen familial and social ties, leading to a more harmonious and inclusive society.