Higher Education Governance: Malaysia and Kazakhstan moved to revive higher-education ties through a forum in Astana, with cooperation now expanding into AI, nuclear energy, critical minerals and agriculture. University Finance Oversight: Malaysia’s higher-education ministry said it is reviewing and restructuring public university holding companies after funding pressures, including UiTM Holdings, following calls to examine management and governance. Secondary School Assessment Reform: A New Zealand expert panel urged changes to the new secondary school qualifications system, warning that uncertainty is eroding teacher confidence and could undermine equitable outcomes and workable implementation. Student Credential Delays: In Telangana, thousands of students are stuck waiting for original degree certificates as fee-reimbursement dues to private colleges remain only partially released. Campus Safety and Protests: India saw campus unrest over women’s safety concerns, with protests and clashes triggered by allegations and misinformation around alleged assaults. Private Universities Regulation: India’s Supreme Court ordered private universities to disclose five years of audited finances and fee structures, reiterating they cannot operate as profit-making institutions. International Education and Exchange Risks: The Philippines’ defense chief warned that China-linked educational exchanges could be used to gain information and influence public opinion. Skills and Talent Pipeline: India improved its WorldSkills showing, finishing 10th in Shanghai with six silver medals and 20 medals for excellence, highlighting stronger vocational outcomes. China-US People-to-People: Two giant pandas arrived in the US for a 10-year stay, spotlighting conservation cooperation and renewed warmth in bilateral ties.