Paris: Thousands of school and college students across France have taken to the streets demanding reforms to the country's education system.

The students have raised concerns over overcrowded classrooms, the poor condition of educational facilities, inequalities in the education system, unclear university admission procedures and shortages of teachers and other staff.

They are demanding government action to address these issues. What began as local protests has spread across the country, developing into a wider movement.

The protests have disrupted operations at hundreds of high schools across France. In some places, demonstrations turned violent, leading to clashes between protesters and police.

Police used tear gas to disperse protesters and arrested several students for allegedly disrupting public order.

Hundreds of educational institutions have been closed amid the ongoing protests.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has called an emergency cabinet meeting to discuss the situation.