The initial proposal for the establishment of a university emerged in 1917 through the Sadler Commission formed by Calcutta University to assess the university system in Bengal. However, the recommendations made in the report did not lead to immediate actions.
The University of Dhaka was eventually founded in 1921. The demand for a university in the northern part of East Bengal gained momentum, particularly as two universities were quickly established in West Pakistan using funds redirected from East Bengal. This disparity prompted students from Rajshahi College to spearhead the movement advocating for a new university. Eventually, Rajshahi was chosen as the location for the second university in East Bengal, and the Rajshahi University Act of 1953 (East Bengal Act XV of 1953) was passed by the East Pakistan provincial Assembly on March 31, 1953. Itrat Hossain Zuberi, the principal of Rajshahi College, became the first vice-chancellor.
Initially, the university operated from temporary locations, including the local Circuit House and Boro Kuthi, an 18th-century Dutch establishment. B B Hindu Academy, a local school, housed essential facilities like the library, teachers' lounge, and the medical center. The university commenced with 20 professors, 161 students (including 5 females), and six departments — Bengali, English, History, Law, Philosophy, and Economics. In 1964, the offices were relocated to the permanent campus.
The 1960s witnessed a turbulent period in Bangladesh, marked by escalating demands for East Pakistani autonomy. During this time, the university's students and staff became increasingly involved in politics. On February 18, 1969, Shamsuzzoha, a professor, lost his life as he attempted to prevent the police from firing on student demonstrators, a date now commemorated as Zoha Day. During the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971, the campus served as a base for the Pakistan Army, resulting in the loss of several professors, students, and officers.
Post-independence, a new administration act, the Rajshahi University Act of 1973, was implemented. The years following independence witnessed steady growth in student enrollment and the academic staff's size. However, the 1980s proved tumultuous due to student protests against the military rule of Hossain Muhammad Ershad. Since the early 1990s, the university has experienced relative calm with a reduction in session backlogs, although student politics remains a contentious issue.
Aspect | Information |
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Location | Rajshahi, Bangladesh |
Established | 1953 |
Motto | "তমসোমা জ্যোতির্গময়" (Lead us from darkness to light) |
Type | Public Research University |
Vice-Chancellor | Professor Dr. M. Shah Nowaz Ali |
Academic Units | Numerous departments and faculties |
Campus Area | Large and diverse campus |
Undergraduate Programs | Various disciplines including Arts, Science, Business |
Postgraduate Programs | Master's and PhD programs |
Admission Process | Typically involves an admission test and application process |
Historical Significance | Second university in East Bengal, founded during British India |
Notable Events | Active participation in politics during historical events; Zoha Day commemorated |
Facilities | Libraries, laboratories, sports facilities, residential halls |
Website | Rajshahi University Website |
Apply for a student visa with the following documents:
1. Class 10 & 12 admit card, mark sheet, and certificate
2. Admission letter and Equivalence Certificate
3. TT copy (college fees transfer)
4. Birth certificate
5. 2 passport-size photos
6. Original Passport
After completing the above steps, report to the college within the announced deadline once the medical college announces it.
Particular | Year 1 to 6 Years |
---|---|
Fees in USD (approx) | $35000/- |
Fees in INR (approx) | 2,905,000/- |
NOTE: 1$ = 83. The mentioned fee is approximate in nature, and it will be subject to change.