France to close up to 500 schools amid student unrest and safety fears

France's Education Ministry said it would close up to 500 schools across the country, with officials citing security concerns as the primary reason for the drastic measure. The announcement comes as protest organisers have called for a resumption of student demonstrations, signalling continued pressure on the government's education policies.

The scale of the planned closures underscores the depth of disruption affecting France's school system. Education officials have indicated that the shutdowns are a precautionary step to ensure student and staff safety during the period of heightened social tension.

Student protest organisers have already begun mobilising for fresh demonstrations, suggesting the dispute over education policy shows no signs of abating. The renewed calls for action indicate organisers intend to maintain pressure on the government despite the ministry's intervention.

The closures represent one of the most significant disruptions to France's education system in recent years. Officials have not indicated how long the shutdowns would remain in effect or provided details on which schools would be affected, leaving uncertainty about the scope and duration of the measure.