French Education Minister Edouard Jean-Michel Vallaud announced on Sunday that classes would be suspended in 400 to 500 high schools on Monday due to student protests and safety concerns. The suspension would be either partial or complete, depending on the school. Vallaud stated that the decision to close schools was made when safety conditions were not met, either due to damaged facilities and equipment or because staff members were directly targeted.
According to Vallaud, 24 educational institutions were damaged or vandalized on the sidelines of the student protests that started earlier in the week. He expressed his regret over the injury of 78 education sector workers since the beginning of the events. The minister stated that there were activists, particularly from the far left, who infiltrated the student movement and took over, being extremely violent.
The student protests began two weeks ago in a high school in the Cretay suburb of Paris, in support of teachers who went on strike due to a lack of staff and resources. The movement gained momentum and spread to different parts of France over the past week. On Friday, there were tensions and over 1,700 arrests, bringing the total number of arrests since Monday to 5,000.
Students are demanding several things, including the presence of teachers, better study conditions, and a more manageable school schedule. The current school day, which runs from 8 am to 6 pm, is considered too long by some. Vallaud stated that the number of schools suspending classes on Monday would likely be similar to Friday's number, but with a gradual and partial resumption of classes.
The French Education Ministry has been facing criticism over its handling of the protests and the safety of students and staff. The ministry has been accused of not doing enough to address the concerns of students and teachers. The protests have sparked a national debate about the state of education in France and the need for reforms.
The situation remains uncertain, with many schools and students waiting to see how the situation will unfold. The French government has urged calm and dialogue, but the protests show no signs of abating. The Education Ministry has promised to work with students, teachers, and parents to find a solution to the crisis.
The protests have also raised concerns about the impact on the academic year and the future of education in France. The government has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with some accusing it of being too heavy-handed in its response to the protests. The situation remains volatile, with many calling for a peaceful resolution to the crisis.
Key points
- Classes suspended in 400-500 French high schools due to student protests and safety concerns.
- 24 educational institutions damaged or vandalized during protests.
- Over 5,000 arrests made since Monday amid ongoing student protests.
