Kerala has once again set an example in inclusive education. Drawing inspiration from the Malayalam film Manjummel Boys, the state has introduced a simple but powerful change in school seating arrangements — ensuring that no student remains a permanent backbencher. All students will now rotate their seats regularly, giving everyone equal opportunity to engage, be seen, and be heard.
This move goes beyond furniture and classroom management. It tackles a deep-rooted psychological divide — where frontbenchers are seen as achievers and backbenchers as laggards. Kerala’s decision aims to eliminate this hierarchy, reinforcing the idea that every child matters equally.
It is high time that Jammu and Kashmir adopts a similar policy in its schools. Our education system still struggles with basic challenges. According to the Ministry of Education, over 35% of government schools in J&K lack proper internet, and many do not have basic infrastructure like clean toilets, adequate classrooms, or boundary walls. The concept of “smart classes” still remains a distant dream in most rural areas.
Worse, the dropout rates in J&K remain worrying. A 2020 survey revealed that a significant number of students leave school after Class 8, especially in districts like Kupwara, Rajouri, and Kulgam. Long-term school closures due to conflict and poor connectivity have only added to the crisis.
In such a situation, implementing rotational seating is a low-cost but high-impact reform. It doesn’t require fancy technology — just a shift in mindset. When each student gets a chance to sit at the front, it boosts confidence, participation, and inclusivity.
We urge the School Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir to implement this policy in all government schools. It’s time to break the stereotypes associated with where a child sits and focus instead on nurturing each one’s potential.
Kerala has shown the way. Let J&K follow — and take one step closer to real educational reform.
