Wildlife Tech in Samoa: Researchers using baited underwater cameras off Apolima Island recorded an endangered leopard (zebra) shark—reportedly the first verifiable sighting in Samoan waters—showing how low-impact camera surveys can quickly expand local marine knowledge. Climate Diplomacy for COP31: Pacific leaders met in Fiji and Tuvalu ahead of COP31, pushing to keep warming near 1.5°C and warning that atoll futures hinge on every fraction of a degree. Agriculture Research: A Pacific Community study of seven Fijian taro varieties found big differences in drought response, with some types (including Tausala ni Samoa) losing far more biomass than others—useful for breeding more resilient crops. Samoa Health Response: Samoa moved to close pre-schools and child day-care as suspected measles cases rose, with deaths suspected to be measles-related while lab results were pending. Samoa Institutional Updates: The Ministry of Family and Social Affairs welcomed three new ACEOs as it continues its transition, including roles for women/men inclusion, community engagement, and research/policy. Regional Tech & Skills: ACIAR’s Meryl Williams Fellowship started a new nine-month cohort of 21 Pacific women leaders, including a Samoa fisheries officer, to strengthen agriculture and food-systems leadership. HIV Preparedness: Samoa increased HIV surveillance and readiness after Fiji declared a national emergency, citing precautionary steps linked to frequent flights between the countries. Women’s Economic Power: The M4C Fiji Pacific Women Makete connected artisans across Samoa, Fiji, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, highlighting how exchanges can turn craft skills into new business opportunities.