The University of Dhaka, established in 1921 under the Dacca University Act 1920 by the Indian Legislative Council, is the oldest and one of the most prestigious higher education institutions in Bangladesh. It was founded as a response to the socio-political demands of the Muslim community in East Bengal following the annulment of the 1905 Partition of Bengal, which had created the Muslim-majority province of East Bengal and Assam with Dhaka as its capital. The university was conceived as “a splendid imperial compensation” to appease the Muslims of East Bengal.
The establishment of the university was spearheaded by notable figures such as Nawab Bahadur Sir Khwaja Salimullah, who donated 600 acres of land from his estate, and Syed Nawab Ali Chowdhury, who contributed financially and advocated strongly for its creation. The university opened its doors to academic activities on July 1, 1921, beginning with 847 students and three faculties: Arts, Science, and Law, comprising 12 departments including Bengali, English, History, Islamic Studies, Philosophy, Economics, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and Law.
Key historic structures like Curzon Hall became foundational buildings for the university, while the institution benefited from the infrastructure and staff of Dhaka College, which transferred many resources to the newly established university. The first vice-chancellor was Philip Joseph Hartog, formerly academic registrar of the University of London.
Dhaka University has played a central role in the intellectual, cultural, and political life of Bangladesh, contributing significantly to its national movements, including the Language Movement and the Liberation War of 1971. It is a residential university with several student halls and remains a major center for research, education, and activism.
Today, the University of Dhaka continues to be a leading institution in Bangladesh, known for its comprehensive academic programs, research output, and historical legacy signifying the educational aspirations of the Bengali people during the colonial era and beyond.