Students Protest Across France
French students have taken to the streets to demand changes in the education system.
The ongoing movement of the secondary school pupil’s strike in France began as pupils demand changes to the education system, such as renovation of high schools, stand-ins for absent teachers, better timetable management, access to further education, and against overcrowded classes.
As reported by Around Prague, in some high schools, ceilings are collapsing, tables and chairs are broken, and rats are found in buildings.
According to France Info, 400 high schools were closed on 2 October. Students blocked entrances with bins, held placards, and chanted slogans. Some teachers also joined the movement.
According to one student:
“Secondary school pupils need to be heard. High schools are forgotten. Acts of violence appeared as the only way to be heard.”
The prime minister has begun discussions with his other ministers, regional representatives, and student representatives. He asked the regional education authority to find substitutes and his ministers for ideas to improve access to further studies. In a recent X post, he mentioned organizing “a session of internal democracy within its high school”.