Holy Child Central Colleges, Inc. (HCCCI) was honored to participate in CONVERGE TO ACHIEVE: The Higher Education Summit on September 15, 2025. The event brought together leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from higher education across the Philippines and beyond. Representing HCCCI was Sarah Jean H. Dolar, MBA, OIC-Human Resource, who served as the institution’s delegate at this significant gathering, which highlighted the evolving role of higher education in nation-building.

The summit featured esteemed guests, including Dr. Shirley C. Agrupis, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education (CHED); Atty. Lily Freida C. Macabangun-Milla, CESO IV, Director of the CHED International Affairs Service (IAS); Dr. Rody P. Garcia, Regional Director of CHED Regional Office XII; and Annabelle R. Dafielmoto, MPHILO, Education Supervisor II at CHED Region XII. Their attendance emphasized collaboration, inclusivity, and innovation in higher education, reflecting the shared responsibility of institutions to respond to both national priorities and global educational goals. The event was further highlighted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., who launched the Presidential Merit Scholarship Program, demonstrating the government’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to quality education.

For HCCCI, participation in the summit is more than formal representation—it is an opportunity to learn, share, and align its vision with the broader goals of Philippine higher education. Discussions on lifelong learning, recognition of prior learning, distance education, workforce readiness, and human rights education resonated deeply with the institution’s mission of providing holistic and accessible education. Engaging in these national dialogues allows HCCCI to reflect on its role not only as a local educational institution but also as a partner in shaping the global learning community.

This engagement also aligns closely with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). By promoting inclusive and equitable quality education, HCCCI contributes to SDG 4: Quality Education. Preparing graduates to be globally competent and workforce-ready supports SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth. Its advocacy for access to education among underserved and indigenous communities in South Cotabato responds to SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. Finally, building networks with policymakers, educators, and international partners through events like this summit supports SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, showing that collaboration is key to addressing educational challenges.

As HCCCI continues to pursue its mission of providing holistic, quality, and globally attuned education, participation in the Higher Education Summit demonstrates its commitment to learning, collaboration, and service. It reaffirms the institution’s belief that education is not only a path to personal growth but also a foundation for sustainable development and meaningful contribution to society.