The Great generation conversation

By introducing students to other generations during their studies, you break down stereotypes”, said Professor of Urban Ageing, Joost van Hoof in the run-up to the Great Generation Debate on 3 February. “If we can show that it’s possible to have meaningful conversations and challenge stereotypical images, then my mission for today is accomplished.”

The event, organised and hosted by The Lighthouse & Events, focused on urgent social issues such as affordable housing, accessible healthcare, and social security. The central question: How do young and old view these themes, and what can they learn from one another?

Listening as the foundation of the debate

Editor-in-chief and journalist Catherine Keyl moderated the debate, using her experience to keep the intergenerational dialogue sharp and open. “We all tend to fall into preconceived notions about ‘the other’, but by engaging in conversation, you often discover nuance.”

The perspective of the younger generation

Within the panel, Ocke Siertsema (Public Administration student) represented the voice of students and the younger generation. Drawing from her own experience, she highlighted topics such as student debt, the student housing grant, and the increasingly difficult access to the housing market. “Our smaller group carries the consequences of policies for the longest time”, she argued. “That’s why students don’t want to be positioned against other generations, but instead want to be included in future‑oriented decisions.”

Shared concerns and shared responsibility

Joost emphasized during the debate that many societal challenges transcend generations. “Many of these issues are not of or for young people, nor of or for older people. We all feel their impact.” He specifically pointed to age discrimination as an underestimated problem: “This form of discrimination ultimately affects us all.”

THUAS as a connector

Older participants also stressed during the debate that they often feel pushed aside, despite their strong desire to contribute actively to society and to the future of younger generations. The debate made clear how important our role as a university of applied sciences is in connecting generations, both within and beyond education.