Student Government

Students in France are holding protests, with the topic drawing attention internationally. Demonstrations by French students have historically focused on education funding, housing costs and government reforms, and the current mobilisation is being followed closely on social media. Details about the specific demands, the scale of the protests and any official response remain limited, but the story is gaining traction as images and reports circulate.

France is experiencing what is described as one of the largest general strikes in its history, with authorities carrying out emergency shutdowns of public transport in major cities including Marseille. The mobilisation involves students, high schoolers and public sector workers, with protests linked to austerity, debt and broader economic grievances. The scale of the stoppages and the government's emergency response are drawing wide attention.

Schools are facing growing debate over the use of artificial intelligence in teaching and learning. Educators are weighing AI tools for personalised lessons and administrative work against concerns about academic integrity, data privacy, and unequal access for students. The discussion comes as districts and governments move to set policies on how AI should be used by teachers and pupils.

The federal government has launched a $10 million student fitness challenge offering schools prizes of up to $1 million, a push aimed at boosting youth physical activity at a time when children's activity levels are lagging. Schools across the United States will compete for the funds, with the scale of the prizes drawing attention to how far kids have fallen behind on exercise.

Iraq is marking the start of a new school year, with students across the country returning to classrooms. No further details about schedules, enrollment figures, or government statements were available in the reports.

The Italian government has issued a new decree banning face coverings in schools. Under the rule, students, teachers and parents will no longer be allowed to cover their faces with garments such as the burqa or niqab on school premises. Violations carry fines of up to 1,000 euros. The move has drawn attention online, with supporters framing it as a security measure and critics likely to question its impact on religious freedom.