Higher Education Milestone (BVI): H. Lavity Stoutt Community College has gained approval to offer its first internationally accredited bachelor’s degree programme, with Education Minister Sharie de Castro saying the first degree will be locally available and reduce the need for students to study overseas. Constitutional Talks (BVI-UK): Premier Natalio Wheatley says the BVI will propose a motion to the UK as constitutional negotiations ramp up, arguing the territory is treated differently from other UK-linked jurisdictions and that key powers still sit with the UK. Local Governance (Jost Van Dyke): A one-way traffic system is now in effect on Great Harbour Road after resident requests, with Works officials saying it’s meant to improve safety and day-to-day operations for businesses and residents. Public Accountability (USVI): Former VIPD Commissioner Ray Martinez was sentenced to 10 years for a procurement fraud, bribery, and money laundering scheme. Crime & Safety (USVI): St. Thomas saw another fatal shooting at Hospital Ground, pushing the territory’s 2026 homicide count higher, while police continue investigations and ask for public tips. Gun Policy Research (USVI context): A new study on “red flag” laws finds people under extreme risk protection orders were less likely to be arrested for violent and firearm-related offenses while the orders were active. Tourism & Investment (USVI): Club Med and VICI announced plans to acquire and redevelop the Carambola Beach Resort in St. Croix, signaling a major all-inclusive push. Political Debate (BVI): Premier Wheatley defended the government’s $220,000 sponsorship of a Vybz Kartel concert, saying other places spent far more for the same artist.