Strengthening intergenerational bonds: Awareness prog held at GDC Ganderbal

Srinagar, Mar 25: A day-long awareness and sensitisation program on Intergenerational Bonding in Colleges was organised by the National Institute of Social Defence (NISD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Government of India, and Anugraha, Delhi, in collaboration with the Psychological Counselling Cell, Government Degree College (GDC) Ganderbal. The event was supported by Moul Mouj Foundation and GK Labs, as part of their ongoing initiative, “Intergenerational Communication: Roots Revival Project.”

The initiative aimed to bridge the widening generational gap by promoting meaningful interactions between young students and senior citizens, particularly their grandparents. The event encouraged dialogue and mutual understanding between generations, reinforcing traditional values of respect, empathy, and shared wisdom.

College students attended the event alongside their grandparents and other senior members of the locality, making it a truly interactive and inclusive gathering.

Delivering the keynote address, Prof. Fozia Fatima, Patron and Principal of GDC Ganderbal, emphasized the urgent need for such initiatives, stating: “In an era dominated by digital interactions, interpersonal relationships are diminishing. We must consciously bring the younger generation closer to their grandparents to preserve emotional and cultural ties.” Dr Zubair Saleem, Senior Geriatric Consultant, addressed the rising concern of elder abuse in Kashmir and highlighted practical ways in which young people can contribute to the well-being of their grandparents. He urged the youth to: Actively engage in conversations with seniors to combat loneliness, Encourage physical activity and accompany them for walks, Ensure they have regular medical check-ups, Help them adapt to technology for better social connectivity.

Echoing similar sentiments, Dr Shakeel ur Rehman, Secretary General of Moul Mouj Foundation, stressed the invaluable presence of grandparents in a child’s life, stating:

“The greatest blessing you have is your grandparents. Listen to them, learn from their experiences, and make them feel valued.”

Coordinator of the event, Dr Ulfat jaan, Head Department of Psychology and Convenor psychological counselling cell, underscored the significance of intergenerational bonding, highlighting how such initiatives create a sense of belonging, reduce age-related isolation, and revive the lost traditions of storytelling, mentorship and shared wisdom.

In her special message, Dr Aabha Chaudhary, Chairperson of Anugraha RRTC, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to promoting dignity and healthy aging among seniors. She noted that stronger intergenerational ties lead to healthier societies, where elders feel respected and young individuals inherit values that shape their future.

The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from over 100 attendees, including students, faculty, senior citizens and community members. It successfully created a platform for dialogue, encouraging a deeper understanding of the mutual responsibilities shared by younger and older generations. The programme was moderated by Ifza binti Nazeer, a 4th sem student of college.

As a takeaway from the event, students pledged to spend more time with their grandparents, actively listen to their life experiences, and support them in ways that enhance their overall well-being. Additionally, in the Kashmir division, the National Institute of Social Defence and Anugraha Delhi, in collaboration with Moul Mouj Foundation and GK Labs, organized a 5-day outreach program for family members on primary care, a one-day awareness program on government policies for seniors and an Intergenerational Bonding Mela at a school.

About the Intergenerational Communication: Roots Revival Project

Moul Mouj Foundation and GK Labs launched this initiative to revitalize the traditional ethos of intergenerational communication. The project is dedicated to rebuilding the emotional and social bridges between young and old, ensuring that cultural heritage, wisdom and mutual care are preserved in the fast-evolving world. This project is coordinated by Syeda Afshana, Professor of Media Studies and Communication.