National Training Week 2026 (Malaysia): HRD Corp and the Ministry of Human Resources are kicking off the fourth National Training Week with thousands of free courses for all ages, including AI prompting, digital marketing, drone operations, autism support, language classes and vehicle maintenance—aimed at building lifelong learning for employees, gig workers, entrepreneurs, homemakers and retirees. Workforce development partnership (UK): Coleg Cambria teamed with Siemens Healthineers to deliver on-site Level 3–5 apprenticeships and leadership training for 40+ employees, tailored to business needs and progression. AI and hiring pressure (Global): PwC’s 2026 AI Jobs Barometer says AI is splitting jobs into “professionalised” roles (faster growth and pay) and “democratised” roles (lower barriers but compressed value), with HR teams pushed to manage rapid automation and skill shifts. SEND reform backlash (UK): Andy Burnham faces a likely fight with SEND parents over reforms that tighten eligibility for legally entitled support. Public-sector HR risk (Nigeria): Bayelsa police arrested three civil servants over alleged theft of N500m in government equipment, including generators and industrial machines. Workplace learning in healthcare (UK): The Siemens-Cambria model underscores employer-led training as a practical talent pipeline.