Hundreds of high schools across France have been closed as student protests over school conditions and education resources spread nationwide, with clashes between demonstrators and police reported in several cities.

The protests began in the Paris region last week before spreading across the country. Students say they are protesting long school hours, overcrowded and overheated classrooms, inadequate facilities, and staff shortages.

Authorities said nearly 400 of France’s 3,700 high schools were expected to remain closed on Friday. Many schools, particularly in Marseille, also planned to move classes online.

The unrest has resulted in injuries and arrests. Education Minister Edouard Geffray said at least 65 staff members, including 40 school principals, had been injured, while around 170 students were wounded. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin said approximately 2,000 people had been taken into police custody, around 90% of them minors.

Fires and property damage were reported at several schools, while police used tear gas to disperse protesters in some locations.

The French government has condemned the violence while acknowledging students’ concerns. Officials have also accused political groups of exploiting the protests, a claim disputed by the left-wing France Unbowed party.