French police intervened on Thursday to disperse student protests outside schools and universities during a nationwide strike over education, wages and declining purchasing power.

The Education Ministry reported the closure of 81 secondary schools and disruptions affecting 33% of higher education institutions.

Students demanded improved learning conditions, additional resources and more teachers.

In Lyon, tens of thousands marched, with authorities estimating 30,500 participants compared with 55,000 reported by the CGT union.

Police used tear gas following clashes, while authorities imposed restrictions on the demonstration route through the city center.