Libya's school year stalls as teachers' strike deepens over reform demands

Libya's education system has ground to a halt as teachers maintain an escalating strike over longstanding grievances, with union representatives calling for sweeping reforms to the sector. The work stoppage has forced the closure of schools across the country, disrupting the academic calendar and affecting thousands of students.

Teachers' unions have outlined demands for significant changes to education policy, citing inadequate resources, low compensation, and deteriorating conditions in classrooms. The strikers have indicated they will maintain their action until authorities address their core concerns, signaling no immediate resolution to the impasse.

The dispute has sparked wider labor concerns, with other unions indicating they may launch their own industrial actions in solidarity or pursuit of separate grievances. The potential for coordinated strikes across multiple sectors underscores mounting pressure on Libya's government to address workforce frustrations.

Education officials have yet to announce contingency plans or timelines for resuming classes. The prolonged closure raises concerns about academic progress and places added strain on families relying on schools for childcare while parents work.