Coventry University to introduce mandatory small talk before seminars begin

Coventry University has announced plans to introduce mandatory small talk at the start of seminars in an effort to foster a greater sense of community among students.

The policy is set to be implemented from September 2026 and will require all students to participate in a short, informal chat before each class begins. 

In a leaked email to staff, university management claimed the decision was made following concerns about student loneliness and a lack of shared identity across the university. 

The email, from a senior community officer at Coventry, explained that an optional checklist for topics to cover during the chat will be distributed at the beginning of the academic year.

It stressed: “Students are not limited to the topics of conversation provided. However, they are intended as useful guidance for those struggling to come up with enough things to say.”

Recommended topics cited in the email include the weather, what they had for breakfast, and what they did for A-levels back in sixth form. 

A spokesperson for the university told The Coventry Tab: “Coventry has historically had a reputation for being a social university. However, since the Covid-19 pandemic, we have observed a shift in how students interact with each other.

“While students are waiting for class to begin, they’re more likely to text on Snapchat than actually acknowledge the people sitting next to them. This never used to be the case, so clearly something has gone terribly wrong in recent years.”

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The policy has received a mixed response from students. Some have expressed scepticism, questioning its necessity and practicality. 

Michael Chatters, a second year linguistics student, told The Coventry Tab: “It’s no secret everyone in my generation hates small talk. It’s not a bad thing, we attend seminars to learn, not to hear what people are having for dinner.”

Others have been more receptive, suggesting the initiative could contribute to a more engaging university experience.

First year student, Tallulah, said: “If it helps me make friends, I think it’s a positive thing. People tend to find me annoying at first and, as a result, they don’t make an effort to get to know me. Now it’s compulsory for them to listen to me yapping.”

Concerns have also been raised about whether participation in the small talk will be strictly enforced. University officials are yet to clarify whether students will face penalties for opting out, though they remain optimistic that the initiative will be well received.

The policy will be subject to review after an initial trial period. University representatives have confirmed that feedback from students and faculty will be taken into account to assess the initiative’s effectiveness and impact on student life.

You should probably check the date, you April fools!

Featured image via Unsplash and Coventry University