Dhaka College and Dhaka City College: A Comprehensive Overview of History and Programs
Dhaka College and Dhaka City College stand as significant educational institutions in Bangladesh, each with its unique history, programs, and contributions to the nation's academic landscape. Dhaka College, a public institution with a long and storied past, contrasts with Dhaka City College, a private institution founded in the mid-20th century. This article delves into the history, academic offerings, and notable aspects of both colleges.
Dhaka College: A Historical Perspective
Dhaka College, one of Bangladesh's earliest and most important higher-secondary educational institutions, traces its origins back to July 1835 when it was established as an English Seminary School (now Dhaka Collegiate School) by James Taylor, a civil surgeon in Dhaka. Taylor, with the assistance of district magistrate Mr. Grant, organized a local Committee of Public Instruction. The school building was constructed partly through public donations on the grounds of an English factory.
In 1841, the school received approval to become a college. The foundation stone was laid on November 20, 1841, and the buildings were completed in 1846 with the support of the Bishop of Calcutta. Initially, it started as a school and transitioned into a collegiate system in 1841 to provide advanced learning opportunities to local students.
Relocations and Evolution
To accommodate the growing needs of the institution, Dhaka College underwent several relocations throughout its history:
- 1873: The college was moved to a larger building east of Victoria Park to house physics and chemistry laboratories.
- 1908: It shifted to Curzon Hall, while the science departments were housed in the present chemistry building of Dhaka University. Two new halls were also built.
- 1921: The college moved to the old High Court Building when the University of Dhaka was established there.
- Second World War: During the war, it was temporarily moved to Siddique Bazar in Old Dhaka.
Affiliation with Dhaka University
Since February 16, 2017, Dhaka College's bachelor's and master's degree programs have been affiliated with Dhaka University. This affiliation has further enhanced the college's academic standing and provided students with access to a wider range of resources and opportunities.
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Library
The library of Dhaka College was established in 1841, coinciding with the college's founding, indicating the institution's early commitment to providing students with access to knowledge and resources.
Student Halls
Dhaka College has several student halls, including:
- Puspak
- Shankhanil
- Shankhachil
Academic Programs at Dhaka College
Dhaka College offers higher-secondary education (HSC) and bachelor's and master's degree programs. These programs are designed to provide students with a comprehensive education and prepare them for future challenges.
Dhaka College is renowned for its exceptional academic programs and results, particularly for students preparing for the HSC examinations. The college prides itself on producing high achievers, with many students securing top positions in the HSC results every year. The college emphasizes not only academics but also the overall development of students.
Dhaka City College: A Private Institution
Dhaka City College (DCC), also known as DCC, is one of the oldest private colleges in Bangladesh. It is located at Road Number 2, Dhanmondi, Dhaka. The college was established in 1957, during the Pakistani ruling period, with the patronage of local educators and social workers. Classes were initially held at the West End High School and later at Dhaka College.
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Founding and Early Development
Prominent contributors to the establishment of Dhaka City College included Khan Bahadur Abdur Rahman, a notable social reformer, and Ataur Rahman Khan, who later served as Prime Minister of Bangladesh. These founders and patrons emphasized building an institution focused on academic rigor and national development, aligning with broader post-colonial efforts to strengthen local higher education outside government-dominated colleges.
Post-Independence Expansion
Following Bangladesh's independence in 1971, Dhaka City College underwent significant administrative and academic expansions, transitioning from its origins as a night college established in 1957. In 1977, Prof. Md. Infrastructure developments accelerated in the late 1980s and 1990s, with two large buildings constructed in 1989 under the inspiration of former Divisional Commissioner Khane Alam Khan, enhancing classroom and facility capacity. By the early 1990s, the college purchased two additional plots of land and erected six-story buildings on both sites to accommodate growing enrollment.
Administrative and Academic Changes
Administratively, the evening section was discontinued in 1991, replaced by a dedicated morning section for female students, promoting gender-inclusive access. Academic offerings expanded markedly from the mid-1990s onward. Higher secondary (HSC) courses were introduced in 1995-96, broadening the institution's scope beyond intermediate and degree levels.
Degree Programs
Degree programs proliferated:
- Honors in English launched in 1997-98.
- B.Sc. (Honors) in Computer Science & Engineering and BBA in 1998-99.
- BBA (Honors) in Finance & Banking in 2003-04.
- A regular MBA course in 2004.
- BSS (Honors) in Economics in 2012-13.
Academic Departments at Dhaka City College
Dhaka City College operates several academic departments offering Bachelor of Arts (Honors) programs under the affiliation of the National University of Bangladesh, emphasizing commerce, economics, and language disciplines. Higher secondary certificate (HSC) programs extend to additional subjects such as Bangla, supporting intermediate-level education in arts and commerce streams prior to honors enrollment.
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Departments
There are a total of 9 departments in this college. These departments include:
- Bengali
- English
- Economics
- Islamic History
- Philosophy
- Social Welfare
- Islamic Studies
Faculty
Faculty across departments typically hold master's or doctoral qualifications from Bangladeshi universities, with instruction emphasizing practical applications in local economic contexts. Specific faculty listings for HSC include professors like Md. Ataur Rahman and Mst. In the Accounting department, notable instructors include Professor Kazi Mokarram Hossain and Professor Md. Jahangir Hossain, who contribute to both teaching and program oversight. The faculty-to-student ratio supports interactive learning, though exact numbers vary annually based on enrollment, with emphasis placed on educators experienced in National University examination preparation.
Performance
Performance metrics highlight strong outcomes in HSC examinations, particularly in business studies. Following Ahmed's departure, Professor Md. Haque resigned from the acting principal position in March 2025, after which F.M.
Student Life and Activities at Dhaka City College
Dhaka City College maintains several student-led clubs and societies focused on intellectual, cultural, and service-oriented pursuits. In the lead-up to Bangladesh's independence, students from the college contributed to the swelling tide of student activism in Dhaka, which played a pivotal role in challenging West Pakistani dominance through protests, strikes, and organizational efforts in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Political Engagement
Dhaka City College has maintained a relatively apolitical stance among Dhaka's higher education institutions, with limited formal ties to major political student organizations. Despite this, college students have mobilized in national movements independent of partisan structures.
Campus Clashes
Dhaka City College has been repeatedly embroiled in violent clashes, primarily with students from the neighboring Dhaka College, often erupting in the Science Laboratory area of Dhaka. Inter-college rivalries exacerbated by these political dynamics have led to violent clashes, notably with nearby Dhaka College students. The college's involvement in national movements, such as the 2024 quota reform protests, further illustrates political interference's toll. Frequent campus clashes and political activism at Dhaka City College have drawn criticism for disrupting regular academic sessions and eroding educational standards. In November 2024, violent confrontations between students of Dhaka City College and nearby Dhaka College resulted in campus closures lasting weeks, postponing classes and examinations amid ongoing security concerns. Similar incidents recurred in April 2025, when attacks and vandalism halted operations for days, contributing to an unstable learning environment that critics argue prioritizes confrontation over instruction.
Notable Alumni
Sayeed Khokon, a businessman and politician affiliated with the Bangladesh Awami League, is reported as an alumnus of Dhaka City College.
Dhaka College's Legacy and Impact
Dhaka College holds the distinction of being one of the oldest and most prestigious educational institutions in Bangladesh. It is synonymous with academic excellence, making significant contributions to the educational landscape of the region. Dhaka College boasts a rich legacy of successful alumni who have significantly impacted various sectors. Alumni from Dhaka College have excelled in fields such as politics, literature, science, and social service. Their meaningful contributions to society reflect the college's commitment to nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders.
Future Aspirations
As Dhaka College progresses, it remains committed to enhancing its educational offerings and preparing students for future challenges. The college aspires to continue nurturing responsible citizens and future leaders who will contribute positively to society. Through various initiatives, Dhaka College aims to empower students to achieve their dreams. Dhaka College stands as a beacon of hope and opportunity for students in Bangladesh, shaping the future of countless HSC students.
In conclusion, Dhaka College is more than an educational institution; it is a place where students are inspired to learn, grow, and transform their futures.
Departments at Dhaka City College in Detail
Department of Bengali
The Department of Bengali at DCC is recognized as one of the top college-level Bengali departments in Bangladesh. The Department's strong record of achievement in each year's HSC result is based on its participatory learning system, where students can enlarge their understanding by sharing ideas with their teachers and friends.
Faculty:
- Mrs. Salma Ahmed (Professor)
- Mr. Md. Arifur Rahman (Professor)
- Mr. Kajalendu Dey (Professor)
- Mrs. Nilufar Begum (Professor)
- Mr. Mynoddin Ahmed (Associate Professor)
- Mrs. Tahura Yasmin (Associate Professor)
- Md. Emdadul Haque (Assistant Professor)
Department of English
The Department of English at DCC is recognized as one of the top Honours level English departments under the National University in Bangladesh. The Department's strong record of achievement in each year's Honours result is based on its participatory learning system where students can enlarge their understanding by sharing ideas with their teachers and friends. Dhaka City College has been making continuous effort with a group of qualified teachers under a competent administration.
Faculty:
- Mr. Md. Shahjahan Khan (Professor)
- Mr. Md. Abdul Jalil (Professor)
- Mr. Muhammed Shamsul Alom (Professor)
- Mr. Md. Yusuf Ali Chowdhury (Professor)
- Mr. Md. Mofazzel Hossain (Associate Professor)
- Mr. Mustafizur Rahman (Associate Professor)
- Mr. Qji Neamul Huque (Associate Professor)
- Mrs. Farhana Sharmin Gazi (Associate Professor)
- Mr. Golam Kabir (Assistant Professor)
- Mr. Farhad Hossain (Assistant Professor)
- Zihan Sabah (Assistant Professor)
- Md. Elham Hossain (Assistant Professor)
- Delwara Akther Dipti (Lecturer)
- Mr. Md. Ashraful Alam (Lecturer)
Department of Economics
The Department of Economics at DCC is recognized as one of the top college-level Economics departments in Economics.
Faculty:
- Mr. Md. Akhtarul Islam (Professor)
- Mrs. Selina Begum (Professor)
- Mrs. Bilkis Banu (Associate Professor)
- Mr. Miftah Uddin Ahmed (Associate Professor)
- Mrs. Kohinur Akter (Lecturer)
Department of Islamic History
The Department of Islamic History at DCC is recognized as one of the top college-level Islamic History departments in Islamic History. The Department's strong record of achievement in each year's HSC result is based on its participatory learning system where students can enlarge their understanding by sharing ideas with their teachers and friends.
Faculty:
- Mrs. Rownak Akhter (Professor)
- Mrs. Rabeya Majid (Assistant Professor)
Department of Philosophy
The Department of Philosophy at DCC is recognized as one of the top college-level Philosophy departments in Philosophy.
Faculty:
- Mr. Abu Taher (Professor)
Department of Social Welfare
The Department of Social Welfare at DCC is recognized as one of the top college-level Social Welfare departments in Social Welfare. The Department's strong record of achievement in each year's HSC result is based on its participatory learning system, where students can enlarge their understanding by sharing ideas with their teachers and friends.
Faculty:
- Mr. A.T.M. Hanifuddin (Professor)
- Mrs. Dil Afroze (Associate Professor)
Department of Islamic Studies
The Department of Islamic Studies at DCC is recognized as one of the top college-level Islamic Studies departments in Islamic Studies. The Department's strong record of achievement in each year's HSC result is based on its participatory learning system where students can enlarge their understanding by sharing ideas with their teachers and friends.
Faculty:
- Mr. Md. Shamsul Hoque (Is. St.) (Professor)
- Mr. Md. Abdul Mannan (Assistant Professor)
Historical Context: The Establishment of Dhaka University
Understanding the historical context surrounding the establishment of Dhaka University sheds light on the broader educational landscape of the region during the British colonial period. Dhaka University, being the first of its kind in what is now Bangladesh, has been the most influential institution in the country. Its marks and shadows extend to the pillars of the society, culture, and politics of the region. In the 80 years of its history, the graduates of this institution have been the major driving force in the region's politics.
Background
Before the 1857 Sepoy Mutiny, East Bengal was far from the hub of commerce. The people, especially the Muslims, lagged behind in education, business, and government services. The Hindu dominance and Muslim inferiority were clearly present and felt in the nineteenth and early twentieth century in the region. During the British period, the Muslims alienated themselves from the opportunities opening up for the emerging middle class by remaining aloof of the western-oriented education. This self-imposed isolation, however, later intensified their awareness of the minority status. After the mutiny, Muslims began to realize the importance of education and started to think ways to adapt with the rapidly changing socioeconomic conditions in India.
Sir Syed Ahmad Khan's Influence
In the late nineteenth century, Sir Syed Ahmad Khan (1817-98), a well-known Muslim scholar and politician, through his writings helped to reconcile the traditional views of Indian Muslims with the emerging ways. He made Muslims aware of the new ideas and education system being introduced by the British. He was one of the first Muslims to recognize the problems facing his community under a government ruled by a Hindu majority.
Political Climate
Indian politics was not steady in the beginning of the twentieth century. The political situation was rapidly changing. The British were beginning to feel uneasy in their colony. Hostility was brewing among the natives. The anger among the people intensified when the British Government failed to organize effective relief during the plague and famine. In order to alleviate the anger, the British played the political trump-card; they used their divide-and-rule political game. From 1870 and on, the British began to provoke the Hindus and the Muslims to form their own political parties to establish their distinct religious identities. That was the beginning of the communal politics in India. Remarkably, the Muslim leadership rose during this time. These leaders knew what they wanted and they pressured the British government to fulfill their demands. British used this opportunity to divide Bengal in 1905.
Partition of Bengal
West Bengal, Orissa, and Bihar were on one side, and East Bengal and Assam were on the other. The partition was made along communal lines. However, the Muslims were happy with the partition, realizing that this would help them to build their own destiny without interference from the majority Hindus in Indian politics. But Hindus were not happy with the partition. The partition was a severe blow to Bengal’s economy. As a result of the partition, All India Muslim League and All India Hindu Mahasabha were formed.
Opposition to the Partition
The partition brought about united opposition from many influential Hindus. Poet Rabindranath Tagore, Sir Gurudas Banerjee, and the Maharajas of Mymensingh and Cossimbazar joined in the protest. The well-known slogans of Swaraj, Swadeshi, Boycott, and National Education emerged during the anti-partition campaign. Bal Gangadhar Tilak was at the forefront of the vigorous propaganda against the partition and recommended its abolition at the session of the congress held in Calcutta in 1906. Dadabhai Naoroji and other leaders of the Liberal faction supported the proposal and it was adopted. In 1907, various Bengali newspapers were banned. Bande Mataram, Jugantar, and a number of other dailies faced the anger of the government. Many Hindu leaders were deported, and leaders like Aurobindo Ghosh were arrested in 1908 on a charge of connection with a revolutionary conspiracy.
Annulment of the Partition
On the face of severe Hindu opposition, in 1911, the British government decided to nullify the order of dividing Bengal (Bongo Vongo Batil). But the Muslims of East Bengal welcomed the partition of Bengal in 1905. They hoped that the creation of a new province would facilitate their education and make life better. Most of the colleges were located in or around Calcutta. Out of the 45 colleges in Bengal Province, only 15 were in East Bengal and Assam. Even in these few colleges, the Hindus predominated. The formation of the province of East Bengal and Assam was a great boon to their people. Therefore, the declaration of the annulment of partition on December 12, 1911, came as a rude shock to the Muslims of East Bengal and Assam. The annulment retarded their progress, and the Muslims voiced their resentment against the annulment of the partition.
Efforts to Establish Dhaka University
A Muslim deputation consisting of A. K. Fazlul Huq and other Muslim leaders met with the Viceroy on January 31, 1912. They argued that the annulment of the partition threatened education in East Bengal and requested the establishment of a University in Dacca. The Government appointed a committee, known as the Nathan Committee, to formulate a scheme for the University of Dacca. Other members of the committee were: G. Kichler, Director of Public Instruction, Bengal; Dr. Mohammad Ali, Aligarh; H. R. James, Principal, Presidency College, Calcutta; W. A. J. Archbold, Principal, Dacca College; S. C. Chatterjee, Principal, Jagannath College, Dacca; C. W. Peake, Professor, Engineering College, Sibpur; and Maulvi Syed Mohammad, Superintendent of Dacca Madrassa. The committee proposed that the university should be of the teaching and residential type and not of the federal type. They also suggested acquiring a college that was beyond the limits of the town.
The Nathan Committee was very effective, prompt, and thorough in the formation of the scheme. They proposed that the university should be entirely financed by the government and staffed by Government officers. The committee also proposed acquiring an area of about 450 acres in Ramna for the Dacca University. This area was previously occupied by the buildings of the short-lived Government of Eastern Bengal and Assam, including the Government House, the Secretariat, the Government Press, and a number of houses for officers surrounding it.
Delays and Challenges
The First World War broke out soon after the submission of the scheme in 1913, which hindered the establishment of the University, and further progress was stalled. The Government of India expressed its inability to meet the financial expenditure with a reduced scheme of the University. The delay in starting the University dismayed the Muslim Leaders. Khwaja Sir Salimullah Bahadur moved a resolution in the Imperial Council of India on March 7, 1917, regarding the immediate incorporation of a University in Dacca. However, as soon as the draft of the bill was drafted, he withdrew the resolution. In 1917, the Government appointed the Sadler Commission to report on the constitution and management of the proposed Dacca University. The Commission visited Dacca in January 1918 and praised the comprehensive scheme of the Nathan Committee. However, they suggested that the university should be of the teaching and residential type.
The Dhaka University Act
The Government finally decided to establish the Dacca University by the Government. The Calcutta University Commission suggested that the proposed university should be autonomous. Members of the committee were Professor F. C. Turner, Principal Dacca College, and Dr. T. T. Williams, Political Economics department, Dacca College. The Dhaka University Act of 1920 (Act No. XIII of 1920) was then made. Under this Act, the Governor of Bengal would be the Chancellor of the University. The Vice-Chancellor would be the principal Executive Officer. Mr. P. J. Hartog C. I. E. was appointed as the first Vice-Chancellor of the new university. His term began on December 1, 1920. Along with him, a group of talented and experienced officials was formed. The Registrar of the University was Mr. J. H. Lindsay, I. C. S. of Assam.
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