Student Protests Rock France and Belgium Over Education Costs

Student protests over education funding continued in France on Friday. More than 140 schools were closed as students took to the streets.
In Belgium, hundreds of students rallied in the city of Liege this week. Local media reported 107 arrests in recent days. The arrests were linked to property damage and arson, according to the Belga news agency.
Belgian students protested against rising education costs. They cited overcrowded classrooms and problems in accessing study materials. Belgium’s French-speaking community raised tuition to 1,194 euros from 835 euros.
Students carried signs reading “It’s a mess, we are fighting for a right, not a privilege!” Authorities advised shopkeepers to close early. The main train station in Liege was closed briefly.
Belgian students said they were inspired by the French protests. “We support each other because we are facing pretty much the same issues,” said 19-year-old Alfred. The Liege mayor urged calm and dialogue.
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