Higher Education Reform: Maldives colleges operating for 15 years can now apply to convert into universities under new rules, including minimum student numbers, international ranking visibility, quality assurance membership, and PhD staffing requirements. Education: A-level exams began across 53 centres with 4,973 students sitting exams nationwide, as President Muizzu sent a message of encouragement to candidates. Tourism Policy & Industry: On World Tourism Day, Tourism Minister Mohamed Ameen and President Muizzu urged the sector to use digital tools and AI to redesign tourism while protecting Maldives’ natural identity and hospitality; Sun Siyam’s Ahmed Siyam Mohamed stressed “human connection” must stay central, and Visit Maldives CEO Abdulla Yasir highlighted halal tourism and market diversification amid regional disruption. Governance & Diplomacy: Prime Minister Tarique Rahman returned from a five-day UNGA visit in New York after delivering his maiden address and holding extensive bilateral meetings. Real Estate Controversy: Housing Minister Dr Abdulla Muthalib pushed back on claims around the Rasmale’ waterfront project, reiterating state land ownership and rejecting “automatic inheritance” narratives. Hospitality Sector: Hotelier Maldives GM Forum 2026 announced Dhiraagu as Premier Sponsor and MAWC as Beverage Partner ahead of the 5 October event on resilience and reinvention. International Update: Maldives’ ambassador in Thailand says no Maldivians were affected by Bangkok flooding, while the embassy continues monitoring.