Schools Close Amid Protests

Over 400 schools and colleges across France remained closed on Friday as student protests over education-related grievances continued.

Education Minister Reports Impact

Education Minister Edouard Geffray said 735 teaching establishments were 'affected' in some way on Friday, '30% fewer than yesterday.'

Violence and Injuries Rise

Three emergency services personnel were injured responding, an improvement on '31 yesterday,' with Geffray condemning 'acts of extreme violence.'

Protests Spread Across France

Protests against teacher shortages, dilapidated school buildings, and a lack of learning materials erupted at lycées in the Paris region last month before spreading nationwide.

School Damage Reported

The Lycee Mandela in Nantes sustained fire damage and was expected to close until mid-October after a fire in the entrance hall.

Police Response and Criticism

Police made around 2,000 arrests and scores of people were injured, including 40 high school principals, with students criticizing heavy-handed tactics.

“You don't want to hear our words; you just fire tear gas”

Student Demands and Future Actions

Student groups called for concrete responses to demands and urged continued protests without violence, planning a mass protest on October 6.

“Police out of schools! No to the repression of student mobilization!”