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France to deploy 3,000 extra supply teachers amid student protests

The French government has promised 3,000 additional supply teachers in response to ongoing high-school student protests, which have seen 6,877 arrests.

  • France's Education minister Edouard Geffray announced 3,000 extra supply teachers.
  • The promise follows three weeks of high-school student protests, with 6,877 arrests.
  • Student unions have expressed a guarded reaction, with one demanding €10bn in new investment.

The French government has offered 3,000 extra supply teachers in an initial concession to high-school student protests. Education minister Edouard Geffray made the announcement on Thursday evening, following another day of demonstrations.

Since the protests began three weeks ago, 6,877 people have been arrested, with 86% of them under 18. On Thursday, approximately 71,000 people protested across France, including 24,000 in Paris.

The new supply teachers are intended for around 500 lycées identified as having the greatest need. Mr Geffray also stated that more funds would be available for teachers working overtime to cover gaps, and student grievances would be considered in discussions for the 2027 state budget's education section.

Student leaders have reacted cautiously. Nathanaël Combary of Renouveau Lycéen said students are awaiting practical implementation, while Sabrine Kharbach of the Union Etudiante stated that action would continue without €10bn in new investment.

Why this matters: The student unrest is described as the most serious in France for many years, occurring amidst broader national tensions over fuel prices and the farming sector, and ahead of presidential elections.

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