We have created 2 communities, one consists of boys, and one of girls. The educational track of each exists without consideration of the other. The two groups have no knowledge of the others’ existence. The ramifications of that situation contributes greatly to the crisis in general, and the age gap specifically. It is unnatural and unreasonable to try to twist arms and coerce (even with financial incentives) to date at a time that suits the needs of the community but goes contrary to their own interests. If the 2 groups knew of each other, motivation would be created where they would see each other as peers. Shidduchim would be created from within the groups who would see each other as natural partners. They would also recommend friends to each other.
I was a Rebbi for many years in a Yeshiva that has parallel tracks for boys and girls. In one class that graduated about 6 years ago there were 50 boys and 50 girls. To date there have been 8 couples (16%) from within that one grade.