University of Dhaka – A Legacy of Excellence in Higher Education
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Discover the University of Dhaka and Bangladesh’s oldest as well as most prestigious university. Additionally, explore its history, faculties, notable alumni, and global impact in this detailed guide.
And, founded in 1921 and stands as the oldest university in Bangladesh and one of the leading institutions of higher learning in South Asia. Situated in the heart of the capital city and the DU has played a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s educational, political, and cultural landscape.
Historical Significance of University of Dhaka
Ina nutshell, the University of Dhaka was established during British colonial rule with the goal of providing advanced education to the people of East Bengal. And known as the “Oxford of the East,” it quickly became a center for academic excellence and intellectual discourse. Over the decades, the university has been closely associated with major national movements, including the Language Movement of 1952 and Bangladesh’s Liberation War in 1971, as well as various democratic uprisings.
Campus and Infrastructure of DU
Moreover, located in Nilkhet, central Dhaka, the university campus spans over 600 acres. And its lush green environment and historic architecture make it a vibrant academic and cultural hub. Additionally, the Curzon Hall, a fine example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, is one of the university’s most iconic buildings and houses the Faculty of Science.
The university offers state-of-the-art facilities including libraries and research centers, laboratories, hostels as well as sports complexes. And the Central Library of Dhaka University is one of the largest libraries in Bangladesh, holding a vast collection of books, journals, and rare manuscripts.
Faculties and Departments
The DU has over 13 faculties, 83 departments, and 20 research centers, covering a wide range of disciplines in arts, sciences, business, law, social sciences, and technology. Some of the prominent faculties include:
Arts faculty: Home to departments such as English, Bengali, History, and Philosophy.
Faculty of Science: Includes departments like Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Biochemistry.
Business faculty Studies: Offers courses in Finance, Marketing, Management, and Accounting.
Faculty of Law: One of the oldest law faculties in the region, producing top legal professionals.
Social Sciences faculty: Encompasses Political Science, Sociology, Economics, and International Relations.
Additionally, the university also offers specialized programs such as MBA, MPhil, and PhD, attracting scholars from across the country and abroad.
Admission and Academic Excellence
Additionally, admission into the University of Dhaka is highly competitive. Each year, thousands of students compete in rigorous entrance exams for limited seats. And the university maintains high academic standards, with many of its faculty members holding degrees from prestigious international universities.
Moreover, its curriculum emphasizes research, critical thinking, and innovation. It has partnerships with numerous international institutions, promoting global collaboration in education and research.
Notable Alumni
The boasts an impressive list of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some notable names include:
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman – Father of the Nation and the first President of Bangladesh.
Muhammad Yunus – Nobel Laureate and founder of Grameen Bank.
Dr. Kamal Hossain – Renowned lawyer and constitution architect.
Begum Khaleda Zia and Sheikh Hasina – Former and current Prime Ministers of Bangladesh.
These individuals reflect the university’s tradition of producing leaders, intellectuals, and change-makers.
Research and Innovation
The University of Dhaka is a center for cutting-edge research in science, technology, social science, and humanities. And it publishes numerous academic journals and promotes innovation through its research institutes, such as:
Institute of Statistical Research and Training (ISRT)
and Institute of Modern Languages (IML)
as well as center for Advanced Research in Humanities (CARH)
However, the university also encourages student participation in global forums, academic conferences, and exchange programs, contributing to international knowledge-sharing.
Cultural and Extracurricular Life
However, beyond academics, DU is known for its rich cultural and extracurricular environment and various student organizations, including debate clubs, theater groups, music societies, and political forums, offer opportunities for holistic development.
Moreover, the university is a focal point for national celebrations like Pahela Baishakh, International Mother Language Day, and Victory Day, reflecting its deep connection to Bangladesh’s cultural identity.
Contribution to Nation Building
Additionally, throughout history, the University of Dhaka has played a crucial role in shaping the socio-political fabric of Bangladesh. And from initiating the Language Movement to being a stronghold during the Liberation War as well as its contribution to nation-building is unparalleled. Moreover, it continues to be a beacon of enlightenment and progressive thought in South Asia.
Conclusion
In short, the University of Dhaka stands as a symbol of academic distinction and national pride and with its commitment to excellence, research, and social responsibility, it continues to nurture generations of thinkers, leaders, and innovators. For anyone seeking quality education in Bangladesh, the University of Dhaka remains a top choice and a cherished institution with a rich legacy.