ENS Paris-Saclay is joining the call from France Universités to organize a debate on the challenges facing young people. Confronted by health, ecological, and geopolitical crises, as well as social and territorial inequalities, young people express strong expectations for their future. The institution recognizes youth as a source of proposals and a full participant in society.
As an institution that trains future teachers and researchers, ENS Paris-Saclay is particularly concerned with these issues. The school believes that education involves not only transmitting knowledge but also equipping individuals with the means to understand the world, exercise critical thinking, and debate.
Deeply committed to freedom of expression and democratic debate, the School firmly condemns violence and excesses in all forms. In a democracy, it is ideas that should confront each other.
In this spirit, a morning of debates was organized on Tuesday, October 13, 2026. Led by faculty researchers from the School, the event addressed themes such as the underlying causes of student movements, continuities between high school and university, how to balance contradictory demands, the extent of radical actions and the state's response, and the role of 'normaliens' (students of the ENS) in such movements.
ENS Paris-Saclay aims to remain a place for the free confrontation of ideas and dialogue, where every student can find their place. This public service mission involves trusting young people, empowering them to learn, understand, and act, and building the future of society together.
Success in higher education requires study and living conditions that allow young people to project themselves into the future. Equality of access, diversity of paths, student support, and well-being are shared concerns of the School, which is committed to offering study conditions that match students' aspirations.
The School reaffirms its commitment to an ambitious policy in education, higher education, and research, ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to study in decent conditions.
