Student protests and education system criticism

Marie Mesmeur, a deputy from Ille-et-Vilaine and member of the Left Front (LFI), raised concerns about student mobilizations during a government session, criticizing the Parcoursup system. This platform is used in France to help students apply to higher education institutions and is a key part of the country’s educational framework.

Parcoursup labeled as an outdated system

Mesmeur described Parcoursup as "an archaism from the Macron years," stating it was "born with him" and "must end with him." She argued that the system, introduced during President Emmanuel Macron’s tenure, has become outdated and needs to be replaced.

Call for reform and more university places

During the session, Mesmeur addressed Higher Education Minister Édouard Geffray and called for an end to the system, which she claimed puts students aged 14 to 18 in intense competition to determine their studies and future. She criticized the system for fostering an unhealthy level of continuous control and referenced numerous suicide attempts among adolescents.

Demand for educational equity

Mesmeur requested the creation of 250,000 additional university places "for all those who are left behind," arguing that students with an average of 12 should not have to repeat a year to pursue their desired field of study. She emphasized that "democracy needs an educated and emancipated people."

Minister defends Parcoursup

In response, Minister of Higher Education Philippe Baptiste stated that Parcoursup does not perform social sorting, noting that 34 students last year did not secure a place. He claimed the system is "the opposite of social sorting" and "the strictest truth," but declined to elaborate further on the issue.