What exactly is freshers' flu - and why do so many get it?

Great news for international students at University College London! After some negotiations, the Home Office has granted extra visas, allowing hundreds of students who were previously left in limbo to take up their promised places. This decision is particularly significant for many students from China, ensuring they can continue their education without further delays. It's a positive step towards supporting international education and fostering diversity on campus.

The tragic collapse of an Islamic boarding school in Indonesia has resulted in a death toll of 49, with 14 students still missing. Rescuers are tirelessly searching through the rubble, highlighting the urgency of the situation. This incident raises serious concerns about building safety regulations, as police allege that construction was ongoing without the necessary permits. The loss of young lives is a heartbreaking reminder of the importance of adhering to safety standards in educational institutions.

President Trump's recent proposal to offer incentives to USC and eight other colleges has raised concerns about the future of education focused on justice and equity. Critics, including Governor Newsom, argue that this approach resembles McCarthyism, potentially stifling academic freedom and promoting a divisive agenda. This matters because it could reshape the educational landscape, prioritizing political loyalty over inclusive learning.

In the aftermath of Charlie Kirk's assassination, many college students, particularly from Black, brown, and LGBTQ+ communities, are expressing their discomfort with the idolization he has received. Alana, a student at Utah Valley University, highlighted the puzzling nature of this praise, especially given Kirk's controversial views. This reaction underscores a broader conversation about how society chooses to honor figures and the implications of such idolization, particularly when it comes to marginalized voices.

The recent collapse of a prayer hall at an Islamic boarding school in Sidoarjo, Indonesia, has resulted in the tragic deaths of 37 students, with many more still unaccounted for. This heartbreaking incident, primarily affecting boys aged 12 to 19, has sparked outrage over the issue of illegal construction practices in the country. It highlights the urgent need for stricter regulations to ensure the safety of educational facilities and protect the lives of students.

The tragic collapse of a boarding school in Sidoarjo, Indonesia, has resulted in a rising death toll of 14, with many students still unaccounted for. As recovery efforts continue, heavy machinery is being brought in to clear the debris, highlighting the urgency of the situation. This incident not only raises concerns about building safety standards in the region but also deeply affects the community as families await news of their loved ones.

A new plan aimed at revolutionizing the housebuying process is set to cut costs and reduce the time it takes to buy a home. Under these proposals, sellers and estate agents will be required to provide essential information about properties upfront, making the buying experience smoother and more transparent. This change is significant as it could lead to a more efficient market, benefiting both buyers and sellers by minimizing delays and unexpected costs.

Sanae Takaichi's victory in Japan's ruling party election marks a significant milestone as she is set to become the country's first female Prime Minister. This historic event is accompanied by a surge in the Nikkei index, which has reached record highs, reflecting investor confidence. Additionally, gold prices are nearing $4,000, continuing a rally that highlights strong demand and economic optimism. These developments are crucial as they signal potential shifts in Japan's political landscape and economic policies, which could have far-reaching implications for both domestic and global markets.

In a significant legal development, the Victorian Director of Public Prosecutions has announced plans to appeal Erin Patterson's sentence, arguing that it is 'manifestly inadequate.' This move highlights the ongoing scrutiny of legal outcomes in high-profile cases and reflects a commitment to ensuring justice is served. The appeal could lead to a reassessment of the case and potentially harsher penalties, which is crucial for public confidence in the legal system.

Typhoon Matmo has wreaked havoc on southern China, forcing around 350,000 people to evacuate their homes due to severe rain and damaging winds. The storm made landfall after impacting Hainan, leading to significant disruptions including canceled flights and suspended ferry services. This situation highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of typhoons in the region, raising concerns about climate change and disaster preparedness.

Russia's defense ministry reported that it intercepted 251 Ukrainian drones in a significant overnight attack, marking one of the largest retaliatory strikes in the ongoing conflict. This incident highlights the escalating tensions between the two nations, especially with one drone reportedly targeting Moscow, raising concerns about security in the Russian capital.

Former England rugby captain Lewis Moody has announced that he has been diagnosed with motor neurone disease, a condition that affects the nervous system and can lead to severe physical decline. This news is particularly significant as it highlights the health challenges faced by athletes after their careers, raising awareness about the long-term effects of sports injuries and the importance of medical support for former players.