Digital Public Infrastructure & AI: A Fiji Times editor saw how China’s smart substations use AI robot-dog inspections to cut checks from hours to minutes, highlighting Asia-Pacific tech cooperation. Climate & science at UN talks: Fiji’s lead negotiator says climate science is being attacked in Bonn, warning against “polluted” narratives that undermine the science behind climate action. Health research & prevention: Fiji and the Pacific are spotlighting gender-based violence at a regional health research symposium, while Fiji’s Ministry of Health reports rising influenza-like illness and acute respiratory infections, with lab-confirmed seasonal influenza activity. Education outcomes: A new Pacific learning report (PILNA 2025) shows gains in numeracy, reading and writing, but calls for continued targeted action. Transport payments: Fiji’s eTransport platform now supports QR-code bus fare payments from smartphones, including offline wallet options. Energy transition: EPC Renewables and Energy Fiji Ltd back the Yaqara solar-plus-battery project (22MW/40MWh first stage, then 120MW/200MWh), plus Fiji’s Rabi Island communities are turning to solar as fuel costs bite. Agritech: Fiji Sugar Corporation begins spray-drone trials/training to help cane farmers apply inputs faster, especially in hard-to-reach areas. HIV alert: New Zealand researchers urge stronger regional response to Fiji’s rapidly escalating HIV epidemic. Governance & borders: Parliament scrutinises Fiji’s border system independence under the Vuvale Union, plus coordination gaps between Immigration and FRCS after a major tax-liability case left Fiji.