BBAU Initiative to Strengthen Intergenerational Dialogue and a Sense of Belonging: Workshop on ‘Ageing with Dignity’ Held at BBAU

Lucknow: Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow, through its Centre for Studies in Social Inclusion (CSSI), organised a workshop on “Ageing with Dignity: Companionship, Care & Intergenerational Bonds” on September 24. The programme was organised jointly with the 2nd Innings Senior Citizen’s Club, Lucknow. The programme was presided over by the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal. Apart from this, Mr. Atul Dubey & Chief Operating Officer Mr. Shailendra Mohan from the 2nd Innings Senior Citizen’s Club and Prof. Jaya Srivastava, Director, Centre for Studies in Social Inclusion were also present on the dais. The programme commenced with the lighting of the ceremonial lamp and floral tribute to the portrait of Babasaheb Ambedkar. At the beginning, the organising committee welcomed and expressed its gratitude to the dignitaries on the dais by presenting them with bouquets. Thereafter, Prof. Jaya Srivastava welcomed all the participants and apprised them of the objectives and outline of the programme.
Addressing the gathering, Vice-Chancellor Prof. Raj Kumar Mittal said that the responsibility of a university is not limited to imparting academic knowledge to students; it also includes developing a sense of social responsibility and sensitivity towards society. He said that respect for senior citizens is deeply rooted in Indian culture and social values. There is a need to ensure that these values are not confined merely to thoughts and words but are reflected in our behaviour and daily lives as well. He stated that such programmes play an important role in strengthening students’ respect, sensitivity, empathy and sense of social responsibility towards senior citizens. Prof. Mittal further said that such initiatives contribute to bringing about positive social change while also connecting students with human values. He also assured the CSSI of all possible support from the University in taking this initiative forward.
Expressing her views, Prof. Jaya Srivastava said that due to children moving to other cities and countries in search of employment and better career opportunities, a large number of elderly parents are living alone. In such circumstances, loneliness among senior citizens in urban India is emerging as a significant social challenge. Prof. Srivastava said that social connectedness is not limited to living together; communicating with someone, listening to them and spending time with them are equally important. She stated that through this programme, students would get an opportunity to spend time with senior citizens and learn from their experiences and life lessons, while senior citizens would also have an opportunity for meaningful interaction, companionship and emotional support.
Mr. Atul Dubey of the 2nd Innings Senior Citizens Club, in his address, said that many senior citizens associated with the club have children living in other cities or countries due to employment and other reasons. He said that what such elderly people need most is not financial assistance or material comforts, but someone to talk to, share their thoughts with and spend some time with. He added that when young people spend time with them, communicate with them and listen to them, senior citizens experience a sense of belonging and a feeling akin to being with family. Such interaction brings positivity and emotional connection into their lives.
Mr. Shailendra Mohan, in his address, shared information about various social initiatives and activities being undertaken by the club for the welfare and well-being of senior citizens. He highlighted that the club provides opportunities for interaction, participation and social engagement among senior citizens through its activities. He also encouraged the students and others present to associate themselves with the club’s activities and contribute towards promoting sensitivity and a spirit of support for senior citizens in society.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Prof. Rudra Sahu. During the programme, Prof. B.N. Dubey, Head, Department of Sociology, Dr. Sangeeta Krishna, Dr. Bechalal, Dr. Rampal, Dr. Prashimita Mohanty, Prof. Prashant Kumar Tripathi, Dr. Brajesh Kumar, Dr. Ajay Kumar, various faculty members, research scholars, non-teaching officers and employees, students, and senior citizens were present.

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