Directions to adopt 'U'-shaped seating in school held back in TN

JUST hours after the Tamil Nadu's Director of School Education issued a circular mandating the Tamil letter 'Pa' (U-shaped) seating arrangement in all classrooms, the directive was put on hold as it received a wave of criticism, especially on social media, from educationists, health experts, and political leaders.

- PRAVEENA S A @ Chennai

The proposed seating arrangement was intended to eliminate the concept of "backbenchers" and promote equal participation of students. The circular issued by S Kannappan, the director of School Education, said, "Engagement begins with arrangement - the 'Pa' shape opens the floor for open minds". It said the arrangement would enhance interaction, ensure that all students have a clear view of the blackboard and t