EU Budget Fight: Ireland’s EU presidency is set to steer talks on the bloc’s next seven-year spending plan, with Cyprus’ “nego box” now on the table and the fight shifting from priorities to how to fund them. AI in Education: Cyprus-based EssayShark reports a sharp U.S. higher-education contraction since 2012 and argues AI literacy is becoming a core classroom skill as AI spending in education could jump from $6.9B (2025) to $41B (2030). Cyprus Tech & Innovation: Cyprus showcased local startups at VivaTech 2026 in Paris, pitching AI, green tech and deep-tech to investors. Digital Health & Research: PwC Foundation awarded 14 scholarships to first-year students at UCY and TEPAK. Public Health Tech: Cyprus veterinary services launched a digital permit system for foot-and-mouth movement controls, using QR codes to speed approvals at checkpoints. Environment & Marine Science: AKTI calls for urgent action on Paphos microplastic pollution, citing long-running monitoring with very high beach concentrations. Local Economy & Tourism: Cyprus hoteliers say last-minute bookings are helping after earlier tourism disruption, but reservations remain below expectations. Cybersecurity (North): A suspect was arrested over a cyberattack on the north’s work permit portal, with authorities saying no data was leaked. Safety & Ecology: Cyprus’ fisheries department says the invasive silver-cheeked toadfish is dangerous only if eaten, not to swimmers.