Education & Skills: FNU opened its first Literacy and Numeracy Centre in Labasa, aiming to boost foundational learning for children, adults and returning learners, with LANA used to guide support. Northern Hub Expansion: FNU also launched its Foundation Northern Hub at the Naiyaca Campus in Labasa to widen access to higher education across Fiji’s North. Tech for Public Safety: Suva’s facial recognition CCTV rollout is already changing street behaviour, with police and council reporting fewer people staying in monitored areas. Border & Digital Systems: Fiji is rolling out an Advance Passenger Information and Passenger Name Records system with SITA to assess travel risks before arrival, strengthening intelligence-led border management. Connectivity & Networks: Vodafone Fiji says 5G rollout is costly and depends on power utilities, so it’s pairing 5G obligations with upgrades from 2G/3G to 4G LTE. Workforce Development: Polytech Pacific graduates (350) were urged to use work-ready skills in sectors like infrastructure, renewables, tourism, agriculture, manufacturing and IT. Clean Energy for Disaster Response: Fiji Solar Scholars installed a solar PV system at FCOSS in Suva, giving backup power for civil society disaster coordination. Environment & Research: A study found microplastics in deep-sea hydrothermal vent mussels and snails, adding to concerns about pollution reaching even remote ecosystems. Regional Diplomacy: New Zealand and Fiji signed a refreshed five-year strategic pact in Auckland, reinforcing cooperation on stability and prosperity. Business & Innovation: FIJI Water renewed its Supreme Award sponsorship for PMIBA 2026, backing Fiji’s top business excellence.