ASEAN–India Women in STEM: The 2nd ASEAN-India Women Scientists Conclave in Phnom Penh wrapped up with 135 delegates, including 90 women researchers, pushing inclusive science, tech and equitable education solutions through roundtables and pitching sessions. Philippines–China Funding & Education/Capacity: A report using AidData records says Chinese financing commitments stalled under the Marcos administration, with project completion rates dropping sharply as Philippines-China relations worsened—an indirect warning for education and development-linked projects. Batanes Sovereignty Pushback: Philippine officials, including Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. and DFA chief Ma. Theresa Lazaro, rejected Chinese scholars’ claims that Batanes is part of China, stressing official positions and the 2016 arbitral ruling. Typhoon Bavi Disrupts Schooling: Typhoon Bavi battered Japan’s southern islands and is set to hit Taiwan and China, with evacuations and suspended schools and offices, underlining how extreme weather interrupts learning. India–New Zealand Strategic Partnership (Education Included): Modi and Luxon elevated ties to a “Roadmap to 2030” strategic partnership, including education and science cooperation, plus a push to connect India’s UPI with New Zealand’s payments. Special Education Teacher Ruling (India): Madhya Pradesh High Court ordered appointment of a special education teacher candidate, rejecting authorities’ reliance on NCTE recognition when RCI rules apply. Women’s Work & Growth Study (India): A CSEP study argues India could add $700bn–$1.4tn to GDP by raising women’s workforce participation, linking education-to-jobs pathways to economic inclusion. School Procurement Corruption Allegations (India): A Maharashtra MP alleged irregularities in municipal school kit procurement, raising concerns about how education spending is managed. Engineering Skills Gap (India): A feature highlights engineering graduates facing outdated curricula versus employer needs, fueling calls for faster education-to-industry alignment.