ASEAN University Games: Malaysia kicked off the AUG 2026 torch run at the Ministry of Higher Education in Putrajaya, with student-athletes from UMK, UPM, UPNM and a polytechnic carrying the flame ahead of the regional university sports event. Student Well-Being: India’s senior students are reporting steep declines in overall well-being, with the IC3 Student Well-Being Pulse Report showing happiness, confidence and motivation dropping from Grade 8 to Grade 12 and only a small share reaching school counsellors. School Infrastructure Use: An IIT-Madras-led discussion urged states to move from just building schools to using and upgrading older infrastructure, while also focusing on students’ emotional and attitudinal development, not only academics. Solar vs Biodiversity: A China-wide study warns that rapid solar expansion is linked to reduced bird diversity, urging more ecologically informed siting rather than slowing renewables. Talent & Sports Pathways: India’s sports ministry called for faster, structured talent identification across schools, districts and colleges to build the athlete pipeline for the 2036 Olympics. Higher Ed Governance: India’s top court ordered an inquiry into allegations of violence during student protests tied to exam issues, as debate over student rights and accountability continues. Policy Coordination: PM Modi urged government departments, universities and youth to break silos and feed fresh ideas into long-term policymaking.