Kerala to Abolish Backbenches in Schools
In a progressive move aimed at fostering a more inclusive learning environment, the Kerala government has announced its decision to eliminate the traditional concept of "backbenchers" from state-run schools. The initiative seeks to address the negative impact that conventional row-wise seating can have on students' confidence and academic engagement.
A New Model for Equal Opportunity
General Education Minister V Sivankutty confirmed that the government will appoint an expert panel to study and recommend new classroom seating models. The goal is to find a pattern that ensures every student receives equal attention and feels equally important. The minister emphasized that no child should be left behind in their studies or in life due to their seating position in the classroom.
Inspiration from Cinema
The push for this reform has been partly inspired by a recent Malayalam film, "Sthanarthi Sreekuttan." In the movie, a student character proposes a change to the classroom layout after suffering humiliation for being a backbencher. This on-screen idea has already resonated in the real world, with some schools in the state proactively adopting new arrangements, such as a U-shaped seating pattern, to ensure better interaction between teachers and all students.
The government's decision marks a significant step towards creating a more equitable and supportive educational system. By dismantling the physical and psychological barriers associated with being a "backbencher," Kerala aims to build a classroom where every student is seen, heard, and given the chance to thrive.
