CHED Chair Agrupis launches 7-point ACHIEVE agenda to elevate Philippine Higher Education
AdministrationCommission on Higher Education (CHED) Chairperson Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis unveiled her flagship initiative, the ACHIEVE agenda, in a formal launch on July 20, setting the tone for a results-driven and globally aligned direction for Philippine higher education. Taking office on May 29, 2025, Agrupis brings with her a track record of academic leadership as former president of Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU) and CHED Commissioner since September 2024. Her appointment marks a new chapter in CHED’s leadership, now guided by a framework aimed at institutional transformation, international relevance, and sectoral resilience. The ACHIEVE agenda outlines seven key thrusts: Academic excellence; Creative, relevant and innovative research programs; High-impact and transformative extension and outreach programs; Improved revenue generation and resource management; Expanded external linkages and partnerships; Vibrant and engaging, culturally focused university campus; and Effective and efficient management. It serves as a comprehensive response to the systemic challenges confronting state universities and colleges (SUCs), including persistent funding constraints, low research productivity, and limited internationalization. Under Agrupis’ leadership, CHED aims to promote evidence-informed governance, encourage higher education institutions to pursue international quality assurance, and foster academic programs that are responsive to labor market needs. The ACHIEVE framework also underscores the importance of community engagement and the cultural relevance of higher education campuses, calling for a more holistic development of Filipino learners in both local and global contexts. The agenda's launch is also seen as part of CHED’s broader alignment with global education frameworks, including the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Earlier this month, CHED and select Philippine HEIs participated in the International Quality Assurance Programme (IQAP) in London—one of the early steps toward the operationalization of the ACHIEVE vision. As the country faces increasing demand for globally competent graduates, digital transformation, and more inclusive access to education, the ACHIEVE agenda is poised to serve as the central strategy for steering higher education institutions toward meaningful, sustainable progress under Agrupis’ term. Operational guidelines and institutional consultations are expected to roll out in the latter half of the year, as CHED moves to translate the ACHIEVE principles into measurable outcomes across the higher education sector.
