Thiruvananthapuram, July 2025: Kerala’s classrooms are undergoing a silent revolution—and it’s all about where students sit. In a move aimed at promoting inclusive education and equal participation, schools across the state are eliminating the concept of “backbenchers” through a revamped classroom seating system.
Under this initiative, students are now seated in rotational arrangements, ensuring that no child is left at the back of the class permanently. The practice is being implemented in both government and aided schools as part of Kerala’s larger push toward child-centric and equitable education.
Teachers now use rotation charts to switch student seating weekly or monthly, giving every student an opportunity to sit in the front, middle, and back. This method not only improves visibility and attentiveness but also boosts the confidence of students who might otherwise feel isolated or overlooked.
According to officials from the Kerala State Council of Educational Research and Training (SCERT), the idea stems from research suggesting that classroom positioning affects student engagement, teacher attention, and peer interaction. By eliminating fixed seating hierarchies, schools aim to build a more balanced and interactive learning atmosphere.
The initiative is already showing positive signs. “Shy students are opening up more, and even those who struggled academically seem more focused,” said a teacher from a government school in Ernakulam.
The ‘no backbenchers’ movement also aligns with the values promoted under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which stresses inclusivity, equity, and a stress-free learning environment.
Kerala’s progressive step is now being watched closely by education departments in other Indian states, as the focus shifts from mere infrastructure to learning equity inside the classroom.
For Kerala, this isn’t just a shift in where students sit—it’s a powerful message: every child deserves a front-row experience in education.
