Education & Jobs Link: Samoa educators and workplace professionals are urging tighter connections between schooling and real job skills, calling for more vocational training, digital know-how, entrepreneurship, communication, and hands-on workplace experience. Mangrove Monitoring: Eight Upolu communities are taking part in a Kiwa RESTORE project with the Fisheries Division to train locals in mangrove health and structure field work, strengthening coastal protection and resilience. CHOGM Accommodation Push: As CHOGM 2026 preparations intensify, accommodation providers are being urged to register to help secure rooms for thousands of visitors and official delegations. Cook Islands Rescue Relief: The partner and family of Pone Apiuta, a Cook Islands fisherman found alive after a week lost at sea, say they feared the worst but never gave up, after RNZAF located him and he was rescued by a Taiwanese vessel. Budget Governance Watch: Former MP Fiame Naomi Mataafa says Samoa’s 2026/27 budget must clearly reflect development priorities and stronger good governance, questioning reserve allocations and repeated spending. Fuel Levy & Power Concerns: Lautimuia Uelese Vaai highlights electricity, water and safety as key priorities, urges review of solar power stations, and presses for measures to ease fuel-cost pressure. Drug Enforcement Update: Samoa Police report charges in Phase 9 of operations targeting illegal drugs, including alleged methamphetamine and marijuana offences. Samoa on the Global Stage: Samoa confirms participation in EXPO 2027 Belgrade under “Rhythms of Samoa,” spotlighting sport, trade, culture and Fa’a Samoa.