Despite intensified talk of peace, Ukraine and Russia remain at an impasse, each demanding non-negotiable terms that prevent direct dialogue.
The ongoing winter conflict is causing immense humanitarian suffering, with millions of Ukrainians lacking electricity, water, and basic necessities, underscoring the urgent need for a resolution.
Russia sends mixed signals, with its Foreign Minister issuing an ultimatum for Kyiv to meet Moscow's demands or face further military action, contradicting earlier statements about readiness for talks.
The US continues to provide substantial aid to Ukraine, including advanced weaponry, highlighting its pivotal role in influencing the conflict's trajectory and the search for a path to suspend the war.
Thailand's Education Ministry is implementing a four-pronged strategy to address its students' below-average performance in PISA 2025 and tackle significant educational inequality.
The plan prioritizes closing performance gaps by increasing funding for small and low-income schools, overhauling the curriculum to foster critical thinking, and adopting a data-driven management system to reduce teacher workload.
Key initiatives include enhancing school safety, combating cyberbullying, and expanding mental health support through peer-to-peer networks, recognizing the severe impact of distress on academic performance.
An education expert advises verifying if PISA improvements stem from structural changes, advocating for a revived STEM curriculum with practical 'learn by doing' methods, and urging bureaucratic reform to link teacher evaluations to student development.