Gaborone – Botswana’s minister of education says schools are being closed indefinitely after student protests in support of a teachers’ strike erupted into violence.

The minister, Pelonomi Venson Motoi, took the step on Monday, saying she was acting to safeguard students, staff and government property. She says all government primary and secondary schools will remain closed until further notice.

Police fired tear gas on rioting students last week, and running battles between police and rock-throwing students were reported on Monday.

Teachers and other civil servants, whose last raise was in 2008, have been striking since last month to demand a 16% increase. The government is offering 5%.

- SAPA

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