KANNUR: James Mathew, who was CPM's firebrand leader and MLA in Kannur, is not interested in that life anymore. Instead, he is showering affection on children now. His new scene of action is a pre-school named 'Baby Roots' near Kannur Talap CPM District Committee Office.

After withdrawing from the CPM state committee and becoming only a member of the district committee, he bought a nearby land and started a pre-school. He turned to the education of children after the birth of a grandkid. He made the Finland model of learning, which opens the world of knowledge to children without using books, a reality. Granddaughter was the first student followed by other children. James says that if the education system is changed, the children's world will be a better place.

A two-time MLA of Taliparamba, he is retiring from his 46 years of active political life at the age of 60, to take a different path.

Now, there is time for study and travel. Agribusiness with innovative ideas is also in mind. Land has been found in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. He said that agriculture has not become a culture in Kerala and that is why he is depending on Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.

Is Kerala following the path of James?

While James Mathew was the SFI State Secretary, Education Minister V Sivankutty was the President. The Education Department is studying the Finland model of education. James's 'Baby Roots', which adopted that model, was visited by Minister Sivan Kutty.

One cannot proceed with the plans in his mind while carrying out large organizational responsibilities. I was able to convince the party of my thoughts.

- James Mathew