France: Over 400 Schools Shut as Student Protests Over Teacher Shortages Intensify

More than 400 schools across France have been shut as student protests over teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms and poor facilities continue to spread.

The unrest has also left at least 65 education workers injured, including 40 headteachers, according to Education Minister Édouard Geffray.

France’s Interior Ministry said 1,949 people had been arrested, while 305 police officers were injured during the demonstrations.

Authorities also reported significant damage to school facilities in several parts of the country.

The protests began last week at French high schools, known as lycées, as students demanded more teachers, increased resources and improved learning conditions.

The demonstrations have since spread to hundreds of schools, with university students joining the protests over similar concerns.

Interior Ministry figures showed that 1,027 lycées had been affected by demonstrations, with 222 schools blockaded.

At least 30 universities have also reportedly been blockaded, including campuses in Paris and Rennes.

Images from Nantes and Rouen showed fires breaking out at schools as tensions escalated.

In Paris, students were also seen gathering outside schools on Friday, carrying placards and lighting flares.

The unrest has resulted in injuries involving both students and education workers.

Reports cited by the BBC said some teenagers suffered serious injuries during clashes with police.

A teacher in Angers was also reportedly struck on the head with an iron bar.

Geffray has acknowledged that some of the students’ concerns are legitimate, noting that teachers have similarly complained about staff shortages, overcrowded classrooms and deteriorating school buildings.

However, the French government has condemned the violence and damage associated with the demonstrations.

Authorities are now under pressure to address the education sector’s demands while preventing further clashes between protesters and police.

The protests come just months before France’s presidential election, adding political pressure to the government’s response.