a day ago
Breaking bench hierarchies: Chandigarh schools push for inclusion
Chandigarh: Inspired by a model gaining traction in Kerala, some govt schools in Chandigarh have begun doing away with the traditional row-wise classroom layout in a bid to end the backbencher label that often sidelines quieter students.
Schools like GMSSS Sector 9 and GMSSS Sector 19 are now seating students in semicircles or semi-rectangles to ensure equal visibility, eye contact, and participation across the room.
The move is part of efforts supported by the UT education department to promote inclusive classrooms where no student is confined to the margins, physically or socially. Teachers say the new arrangements allow them to engage with all students more evenly, and discourage fixed seating that often reinforces groupings based on marks or popularity.
"This is not just an experiment. We will not let it fizzle out," said director of school education Harsuhinder Pal Singh Brar. "Wherever infrastructure permits, all govt schools in Chandigarh will follow this. We want every child to feel seen, heard and valued, regardless of where they sit."
At GMSSS-9, teachers say the new seating pattern has made classrooms more dynamic. Morning assemblies now include brief activities to mix student groups, and classrooms have been rearranged to support flexible seating.
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"Some students who usually kept to the back benches are now more visible and taking part," said a teacher, calling the shift a positive step.
GMSSS-19 has also begun rotating seating in several classes. Staff members say the approach has helped break usual groupings and encouraged more cross-group interaction. Teachers are keeping a close watch to ensure the changes are effective and inclusive for all students.
The education department will coordinate with school heads for regular feedback. "Classrooms shape character," Brar added. "If we break down invisible barriers here, we will raise citizens who treat each other as equals everywhere."
