The traditional idea of “backbenchers” may soon disappear from Kerala’s schools. In a recent statement, Kerala Education Minister V. Sivankutty suggested doing away with the practice of seating students in fixed rows, especially where some are pushed to the back of the classroom. The minister said the new approach will promote equal learning opportunities for all students and discourage the outdated habit of labelling students based on where they sit.
I chose to write about this because it touches on something we all experienced in school—where we sat in the classroom often became part of our identity. Backbenchers were seen as either naughty or less attentive, while frontbenchers were viewed as serious or teacher’s favourites. But in reality, many bright students sat at the back too. The minister’s idea raises an important conversation: should physical classroom structure affect how we treat or judge students? It’s time to rethink how our classroom setups can either include or isolate children. This move could be a small but meaningful step toward more inclusive and student-friendly learning spaces.
What Is the Minister Proposing Exactly?
Kerala’s Education Minister wants to eliminate the concept of “backbenchers” by changing classroom arrangements. He believes that when students are seated in fixed rows with the same students always pushed to the back, it builds a psychological barrier.
Here are the key highlights of the proposal:
- Classroom seating should be dynamic, not fixed
- Teachers must ensure that all students get equal attention
- Seating arrangements could rotate weekly or monthly
- Smart classrooms and circular seating can support better interaction
This is not about just shifting seats. It’s about changing the mindset around learning and student potential.
Why This Move Makes Sense
The idea of backbenchers being “less interested” or “troublemakers” is quite old-fashioned. Often, students choose to sit at the back for many reasons—shyness, vision issues, group comfort, or even because of teacher bias in seating arrangements.
Removing this division helps:
- Reduce classroom hierarchy
- Make students feel equally valued
- Improve focus and teacher-student interaction
- Allow teachers to better identify learning gaps in every student
In fact, many modern schools across the world have already moved towards flexible seating models that encourage open communication and inclusive learning.
What Will Change in Practice?
If implemented well, this idea can lead to:
- Rotational seating charts that move students around
- More use of roundtable or U-shaped seating
- Training teachers to break unconscious biases about front and back rows
- Changes in how classrooms are designed and monitored
While it may take some effort initially, the long-term results could be improved participation and a healthier academic environment for all.
Are There Any Challenges?
Like any change in education, this idea too may face a few challenges:
- Not all schools may have space or infrastructure to shift seating models
- Teachers will need to adjust their classroom management style
- Students used to fixed peer groups may resist rotation
But with proper planning and teacher support, these hurdles can be managed gradually.
