Intergenerational Gaps; Building the Collapsed Bridge.

Thoughts by Ayotomiwa Ayodele

Intergenerational gaps refer to differences in beliefs, values, attitudes, and behaviors between different age groups. These are seeming to cause tension and conflict between individuals from different generations, particularly when it comes to issues like technology, politics, values, morals, work et, ethics, and social norms.

While intergenerational gaps have always existed to some extent, they have become more pronounced in recent years due to rapid technological advancements and changing social and economic conditions.

For example, younger generations tend to be more tech-savvy and comfortable with social media, while older generations may struggle to adapt to new technologies. Similarly, younger generations may have different views on issues like gender, race, and sexuality than their parents and grandparents.

The older generation is referred to as the custodian of history and experience while the younger generation are seen as the ones with the energy, sadness, fire, and strength.

I have been privileged to be around people from the older generation, and I see the impression and mindset they tend to have toward the younger generation, and of course, as a young person, I know and see the true yearnings of my generation and the ones behind us who have been tagged "THE WOKE or Gen- Z generation"

The potential for conflict arises when these differences in beliefs and values clash, leading to misunderstandings, frustration, and resentment.

These we tend to see around us these days. The older generation feels the younger ones are lazy, entitled, and inexperienced, and likes the younger generation holds reservations and silent anger towards the older generation, the group they believed mismanaged many social amenities that should be beneficial to them, burned many bridges, the frustration of being misunderstood, suppressed and more.

However, it is important to acknowledge that bridging the intergenerational gaps can also provide an opportunity for learning and growth. By engaging in respectful dialogue and seeking to understand each other's perspectives, individuals from different generations can bridge the gap and work together towards a common goal, like the Yoruba would say "owo omode oto pepe, tagbalaba owo keregbe (this is to simply put that we need each other). "agbajo owo lafi nsoya"

Truth is to see the country or world we all desire, all generations need to understand each other and work together, we need each other.

Ultimately, the key to managing intergenerational gaps is to recognize that each generation has its own unique experiences and perspectives and that these differences should be valued and respected.

Also, I think having these conversations will go a long way in bridging these gaps. The earlier we get on it, the better. By doing so, we can create a more inclusive and harmonious society that benefits everyone.

Nigeria shall be great.!!