SMART GUARD project launches in Croatia and Italy; fatal school attack in Slovakia

The SMART GUARD project has officially launched as a cross-border initiative between Italy and Croatia. Valued at nearly 2.5 million euros, the program is part of the Interreg Italy-Croatia 2021–2027 framework and is 80% co-financed by the European Regional Development Fund. Led by the City of Labin, the 30-month project aims to strengthen climate resilience and manage environmental risks, specifically focusing on open-space fires and urban heat islands along the Adriatic coast.

To achieve these goals, the partnership—which includes the University of Rijeka, the Metropolitan City of Venice, and several other municipalities—will develop digital monitoring solutions. These include meteorological stations, sensors, drones equipped with thermal cameras, and AI-driven data analysis, alongside a mobile application to inform citizens.

In a separate incident in Slovakia, a 61-year-old teacher was fatally stabbed during an attack by a student at a primary school in Staškov. Two other individuals, including a 41-year-old teacher and a student in critical condition, were seriously injured. Authorities have detained a 13-year-old suspect, and officials stated the situation is under control with no further public danger. Slovak President Peter Pellegrini and Prime Minister Robert Fico expressed their condolences, noting the incident as a serious warning for society.