What is the problem of the princess academy?

In "Princess Academy" by Shannon Hale, the central problem revolves around a group of girls from a remote mountain village who are unexpectedly chosen to attend a royal academy. The protagonist, Miri, grApples with her insecurities and the challenges of fitting into a competitive environment while preparing for the possibility of being chosen as the prince's bride. Additionally, the academy faces external threats from bandits, which further complicates the girls' journey toward self-discovery and empowerment. Ultimately, the story explores themes of friendship, identity, and the value of education.