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Student Protesters Call for Education Reform in Santiago

Thousands of Chilean students protested against President Michelle Bachelet’s education reform legislation in Santiago on August 21. Thursday’s demonstration took a violent turn when police began using water cannons and tear gas to disperse student protesters, about nine blocks from the seat of the government. The unrest was sparked after a handful of students reportedly began destroying public property.

The march marked the third demonstration in recent months calling for the government to improve the quality of education and make it free at all levels. Chilean student and teacher organizations have demanded more involvement in drafting the government’s policy on hot-button issues like copayment and selection process in schools.

This video captures students demonstrating in the streets of Santiago. Credit: Instagram/carlosfuenver