Republic on the Indian Ocean island nation
The UK energy regulator has proposed a refundable fee schedule for data-centre projects seeking to connect to the electricity network. Developers would pay deposits per megawatt, with refunds if projects are completed. The move aims to curb speculative capacity in the grid-connection queue as demand for AI-related computing grows.
Paraguay's president Santiago Peña has visited Taiwan and has reaffirmed diplomatic support, signing cooperation agreements and praising shared democratic values. China has urged Paraguay to sever ties, saying most Paraguayans favour establishing relations with Beijing, and has criticised Paraguayan officials who visit Taipei.
A U.S. team led by Sergio Gor has tested a home-built Alta X Gen 2 drone to ferry oxygen, ladders and gear to Camp I on Everest, but Nepal’s Home Affairs Ministry has refused a flight permit over drone procedures and security concerns. The test, which aimed to compare with DJI FlyCart technology used by Nepal’s AirLift Technology, has not proceeded.
El Niño has strengthened, with forecasters warning it will be among the strongest on record. Regions across Africa, South Asia, and the Americas face droughts, floods, and rising food prices as climate impacts intensify. Aid groups warn that vulnerable communities and smallholder farmers will bear the brunt as aid budgets tighten.
A global humanitarian picture shows funding shortfalls and ongoing emergencies across Mozambique and Somalia. OCHA and NGO reports highlight displacement, disease, food insecurity and the need for sustained aid amidst conflict and climate shocks. New funding gaps risk undermining relief efforts and recovery.
Arizona State University has launched a bachelor’s program focused on content creation to teach students how to build an online audience, analyze performance metrics, and document measurable results through a capstone project. The program aims to prepare students for the creator economy while addressing concerns about the value of a four-year degree in this field.