School Safety & Policing: A “panic button” system is now in 660 Kyrgyz schools, with police able to respond faster to fights and other incidents, while video surveillance rollout continues across hundreds of institutions. Textbooks Under Scrutiny: Bishkek police opened a criminal case after free textbooks reportedly appeared for sale at markets, as authorities check their origin and whether they were meant to be distributed free. Education Transparency: The state publishing house “Okuu Kitebi” says it’s ready for inspections and pledges openness about textbook errors, citing major planned print runs and signed contracts. Kyrgyz Language Day: On Sept. 23, officials stressed active use of Kyrgyz in education, science, administration and digital tools, with events and language-focused activities marking the anniversary. Culture in New Formats: The epic “Manas” is set for an audiobook release in Sayakbay Karalaev’s version, and a new music video by AY YOLA spotlights “Manas” alongside other world epics. Digital Skills for Adults: “School 21” has opened free IT recruitment in Bishkek for adults 18+, with online testing and a 14-day in-person selection stage. Regional Health Cooperation: A Bishkek dialogue on immunization brings together Central Asian countries and UNICEF to tackle cross-border disease risks, including rising measles cases. Bishkek Education Infrastructure: Construction of a new 1,200-student school in Bishkek is completed, with commissioning preparations underway. Electoral Process Watch: The Jogorku Kenesh reviewed the Central Election Commission chair’s annual report, with deputies discussing voter bribery concerns and ways to boost turnout. International Mobility: Ireland published a list of 16 nationalities exempt from visa application fees for 2026, including Kyrgyzstan.