Articles curated and written by students of Sunmarke School and Regent International School

Business & Finance

TikTok Settles Youth Addiction Lawsuit


TikTok has agreed to settle a major lawsuit over social media addiction on the same day a trial was set to begin in Los Angeles. The case was brought by a 19-year-old from California, known as K.G.M., who says she became addicted to the app because of its attention-grabbing design. She claims the platform caused her depression and suicidal thoughts. TikTok is one of four companies accused of harming young people’s mental health. Meta and YouTube will still face trial.

Read the full article here

 

By Year 9 students, Kai and Tishara

5 Smart Business Ideas in the Age of AI


As artificial intelligence reshapes the job market, some business models still offer strong opportunities for new entrepreneurs in 2026. From digital services and coaching to virtual assistance and AI-focused roles like prompt engineering and AI ethics consulting, these ventures have low start-up costs and growing demand. The article highlights how displaced workers and new founders can build successful businesses by focusing on human-centred skills and emerging needs in the age of AI. Discover the ideas here

Fortes News

U11 BSME Games Champions: Regent Shines in Oman!


Regent’s U11s brought home the gold at the BSME Games 2026 in Oman! With grit, teamwork, and pure Regent spirit, our young athletes dominated every match, powered by the Fortes Pro Sports Signature Programme. Click the link below to watch the champions in action!

Sunmarke transformed into a buzzing global village for World Culture Day! 


From stunning traditional performances to delicious flavours from around the world, students and parents proudly celebrated their heritage and lit up the cultural stage. The day was bursting with colour, connection, and unforgettable moments, a true reflection of unity in diversity!

News & Views

Tactful Travel


Travelling is a popular way for people to relax. Many countries embrace it, and some cultures are even built around this passion. However, although it’s fun, many people struggle to find places to visit, and when they do, many things can go wrong. Still, people go through all this trouble just to find a place to unwind, even though there are easier ways and better places to travel. Read on to find out more.


By Year 7 student, Riccardo 

Why a Beauty Spot in South Africa Could Be Running Out of Water


A South African tourist resort in the beautiful town of Knysna is suffering from extreme water loss due to leaking pipes. Like many seaside towns, it is the latest in South Africa to face a water crisis caused by unpredictable weather. Around 100,000 people live in the town, many of whom are elderly, as the resort is a haven for affluent retirees. It is hoped that the issue will be fixed soon. Read the full story here

 

By Year 9 students, Ira and Vivien

Local News

UAE Schools Announce Shorter Hours for Ramadan 2026


As the holy month of Ramadan approaches (expected to begin on February 19, 2026), the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) have structured a calendar that prioritises both learning and spiritual reflection. School days will be shorter, depending on each school’s policy, with later start times and earlier finishes. These adjusted timings are important to help students and teachers who are fasting maintain their energy throughout the day. Check out the full article here


By Year 11 students, Muhammad and Omar

Dubai Unveils ‘Tawazun Pod’ for Quick 3-Minute Stress Relief


Dubai has launched the Tawazun Pod, an immersive wellbeing experience designed to help residents relieve stress and restore emotional balance in just three minutes. Showcased at the World Health Expo, the pod uses sensory technology, guided breathing, calming sounds, and personalised experiences to support mental wellbeing. The initiative is part of the Dubai Health Authority’s broader effort to improve quality of life and promote mental wellness across the city. Read the full article here

Technology

Hospital to Become the UK’s Largest Robotic Surgery Centre


The Royal Stoke University Hospital is set to become the UK’s largest robotic surgery centre after receiving £12 million from the Denise Coates Foundation. The funding will support more than 1,000 patients a year by expanding robotic surgery for complex procedures. “This investment will allow more patients to benefit from world-leading surgical care closer to home,” said Denise Coates. It will also improve precision, reduce hospital stays, and support safer surgery. Read the full article here


 By Year 9 students, Stephen and Harsh

Is AI Actually Making Our Jobs Harder?

Contrary to the promise that AI would ease workloads, a new Harvard Business Review analysis finds that generative AI often intensifies work instead of reducing it. As employees take on more tasks, switch constantly between activities, and extend work into more hours, the technology can increase cognitive load, blur work–life boundaries, and contribute to fatigue and burnout. The article explores how the reality of AI adoption could reshape expectations, productivity, and well-being in the modern workplace, and why companies need thoughtful strategies to manage these effects. Check out the full article here

AI Recommendation of the Week

AI Tools to make life easier 

Tome


Tome helps you turn ideas into visually compelling stories in minutes. Whether it’s pitch decks, proposals, or content narratives, Tome uses AI to generate structure, flow, and design, combining text, images, and layouts seamlessly. Perfect for content creators who want polished, story-driven presentations without the design hassle.

Maverick


Maverick AI allows you to create highly personalized videos for social media, email campaigns, or websites. Simply input your script, and Maverick generates videos with dynamic elements like names, images, or custom messages tailored to your audience. Ideal for marketing campaigns that need a personal touch without manual video editing.

Sports and Entertainment

GB’s Richardson Wins Second European Title


Matt Richardson completed a superb double at the European Track Cycling Championships in Turkey, adding the men’s keirin gold to his sprint title. Competing in his first European Championships for Great Britain, the 26-year-old produced a powerful late surge to beat Dutch rival Harrie Lavreysen. Katie Archibald and Anna Morris secured silver in the women’s madison, while Great Britain finished top of the medal table with 13 medals, including seven golds. Read full article here


 By Year 12 student, Vedant 

Famous Harry Potter Character Seen Again!


Ever since the famous Harry Potter movies and books were released and took the world by storm, one character in particular has been widely talked about — the Slytherin villain, Draco Malfoy. Now, his face is making a strange reappearance in China! It seems to be everywhere, from posters to banners. Draco Malfoy has become a popular mascot in China, but why is that? Read on to find out more!


 By Year 7 student, Sveva

Wellness

Wellness in 2026: What’s Trending Now


Wellness in 2026 is shifting towards smarter, more personal well‑being — with a focus on sustainable habits, nervous system care and community connection rather than extremes or fads. Experts are seeing a rise in practices that bring joy and reduce stress, from social wellness events and group movement to “daylife” activities that prioritise everyday health over late nightlife culture. Social gatherings that centre around fitness and relaxation are also becoming part of how people connect and stay well together. Read more about the latest wellness trends shaping 2026.

Facebook  X  Instagram