Day: October 21, 2026

Spotlight On: Janiva Cifuentes-Hiss, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Arcos Learning Abroad

This Spotlight On features Janiva Cifuentes-Hiss, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Arcos Learning Abroad. Drawing on more than two decades of experience leading international programs around the world, Janiva shares why intentional program design is the key to creating meaningful global learning experiences. From balancing student growth with thoughtful risk management to building authentic partnerships with local communities, she explores how international education can foster empathy, humility, and lasting personal transformation. Janiva also discusses the importance of accessibility, ethical engagement, and preparing students to confidently navigate unfamiliar environments while making a positive impact wherever they go.

Student-led nationwide protests are expected in Germany on October 31 at 2:00PM; expect disruption and possible escalation.

The German youth group Gen Z Steht Auf has organized student protests in 21 cities across Germany against military policies, education cuts, and rising living costs. The organizers website has a live tally of signups with over 15,000 registered. The 5 cities with the largest expected turnout are Berlin, Hamburg, Koln, Frankfurt, and Munchen. Organizers expect a peaceful protest, but agitators may attend following the October 17 protests in France.

A monsoon will occur from October 21-25 across Bangkok, Thailand; expect heavy rainfall and travel disruptions.

The Thai Meteorological Department (TMD) has issued a warning for intense rainfall. The affected regions include the South, East, Central, lower Northeast, and Bangkok.  Waves in the Andaman Sea and Gulf of Thailand will be greater than 3 meters in height. Flash floods and landslides are likely near foothills and lowlands. Use the BTS Skytrain and MRT Subway, which operate normally unless station entrances are affected.

On October 28, Greece will celebrate Ohi Day across the nation with parades and crowds near Syntagma Square in Athens.

The Met Office has issued Yellow Warnings for wind and rain for Storm Austen, which is expected to impact southern England and Wales. Plymouth, Bath, Cardiff, and Portsmouth will experience severe conditions, with winds expected to reach 70 mph. Heavy rainfall may cause surface water flooding. Expect fallen debris, power outages, and travel disruptions caused by high winds.

An explosion injures 4 in the Kolonos district, Athens, Greece on October 21; expect heightened security and avoid the area.

The Met Office has issued Yellow Warnings for wind and rain for Storm Austen, which is expected to impact southern England and Wales. Plymouth, Bath, Cardiff, and Portsmouth will experience severe conditions, with winds expected to reach 70 mph. Heavy rainfall may cause surface water flooding. Expect fallen debris, power outages, and travel disruptions caused by high winds.

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