Education & Data Systems: The Pacific Community (SPC) says it has launched Samoa’s Education Management Information System (SEMIS) to improve education planning, management and decision-making with more reliable, timely data. Human Rights & Oversight: New Ombudsman Vui Clarence Nelson was sworn in, pledging stronger public understanding of the office and a focus on protecting rights, including online harm to children and violence against women and girls. Justice & Government Capacity: Samoa’s Government launched its first 2026 Government Litigation and Advocacy Skills Workshop, bringing together government lawyers for intensive advocacy training with support from New Zealand King’s Counsel. Courts & Accountability: A Supreme Court judge issued a Prohibition Departure Order stopping money laundering defendants Fred Oliver Papalii and James Atua from leaving Samoa, alongside strict bail conditions. Public Safety & Campus Order: Police deployed officers to the National University of Samoa after student fights and social media videos, with investigations and internal disciplinary processes continuing. Politics & Elections: An independent candidate has filed an election petition alleging bribery in the Safata No. 2 by-election won by Tuia Fuatogi Letoa. Aviation Skills at Home: Samoa’s first in-country pilot licence law exam was held, reducing the need for costly overseas travel for pilots and aviation maintenance engineers. Drug Enforcement: Police arrested two men in Vaitele with more than 50 marijuana sticks, saying the pair were allegedly selling disguised as street vendors.