No more backbenchers: Kerala eyes inclusive classroom model
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Thiruvananthapuram: The traditional row-wise seating arrangement in Kerala’s state-run schools is set to be phased out, with the government announcing a plan to abolish the concept of ‘backbenchers’ in classrooms. The move aims to foster equality among students and eliminate psychological barriers that may hinder learning.
Kerala’s General Education Minister V Sivankutty revealed the decision on Tuesday through a Facebook post, stating that the existing system, which places some students at the back of the class, can negatively affect their confidence and academic performance.
“The government wants to eliminate the concept of backbenchers from classrooms,” Sivankutty said, adding that an expert panel will be formed to explore and recommend the most suitable seating models for Kerala’s education system. “It has been decided to appoint a committee of experts to find out the best model suitable for our education system. Let us consider the suggestions of this panel and move forward,” he posted.
Highlighting the broader goal of inclusive education, the minister stressed that every child should be given equal opportunity to learn and succeed. “No child should be left behind in their studies or in life. Our goal is to ensure equal opportunities for all children. We are thinking about how to make this happen,” Sivankutty added.
He noted that several countries have already adopted alternative seating arrangements to do away with the concept of backbenchers and called for public support in implementing the reform to secure a better future for children.
The idea has gained momentum in Kerala following the release of the Malayalam film 'Sthanarthi Sreekuttan', directed by Vinesh Viswanathan. In the movie, a student character suggests reforming the seating pattern after facing repeated humiliation as a backbencher. Inspired by the film, some schools in the state have already introduced a U-shaped seating model, aiming to give all students equal visibility and attention in class.
The proposed change marks a significant shift in the state’s approach to classroom dynamics and is seen as part of a broader effort to modernise and democratise the learning environment in Kerala’s public schools.
With PTI inputs
