Tirana witnessed a massive student protest on Wednesday, where tens of thousands of students took to the streets, resulting in the burning of Albania’s Education Ministry building and two banks. The students were protesting against escalating education expenses and corruption. Police used water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters who engaged in vandalism, including setting fires, overturning garbage cans, and damaging local businesses.

The demonstrations in Albania are part of a larger movement of student activism across Europe focusing on education and living conditions. In France, high school students have been protesting for weeks, demanding more teachers and improved facilities, citing concerns about deteriorating school infrastructure and overcrowded classrooms affecting the quality of education.

The protests in Albania have intensified since May, presenting a significant challenge to Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government. Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçi condemned the violence on Facebook, urging protesters to distance themselves from destructive behavior and emphasizing the importance of peaceful demonstration.

Student organizers stated that the protest in Tirana was motivated by concerns about university conditions, high education expenses, financial aid, and post-graduation employment opportunities. The unrest underscores the deep-seated issues facing the education system and the aspirations of the younger generation for a better future.