Daijiworld Media Network – Kolhapur

Kolhapur, Sep 13: Kolhapur Zilla Parishad (ZP) has introduced a U-shaped seating arrangement in its schools to remove the stigma of backbenchers and ensure that teachers can focus on every child, promoting equal progress in class. The initiative, named Mission Gyankavach, was inspired by the 2024 Malayalam film Sthanarthi Sreekuttan, which highlights the challenges faced by backbenchers.

ZP chief executive officer Karthikeyan S initiated the project in schools with smaller student strength. In this model, teachers stand at the centre of the classroom, allowing a clear view of every student’s body language and ensuring each child receives equal attention.

“Students sitting in traditional rows often develop a front-versus-back hierarchy, which affects their confidence. The U-shaped arrangement places each child equidistant from the teacher, helping them express themselves freely,” explained Meena Shendkar, education officer for primary schooling, Kolhapur ZP.

The film that inspired the move portrays a backbencher, Sreekuttan, who contests a class leader election to challenge classroom bias. The concept has gained traction nationwide, drawing praise from business leaders Anand Mahindra and Harsh Goenka, who lauded the inclusive approach on social media.