French Student Loses Hand to Police Grenade During Nationwide School Protests

A 15-year-old student in Lens, northern France, lost a hand on Monday after picking up a sting-ball grenade fired by riot police during protests over school conditions. The incident occurred amid nationwide demonstrations that have disrupted lessons at hundreds of schools since late September. Students have blocked school entrances, citing teacher absences, overloaded timetables, dilapidated classrooms, and buildings ill-adapted to rising temperatures. While some students returned to classrooms, others continued actions outside their schools, with larger demonstrations expected on Tuesday. A police union source said the teenager appeared to have picked up the grenade, which exploded in his hand. Authorities confirmed the injury in Lens. The protests reflect widespread discontent with the French education system's infrastructure and staffing.