University of Allahabad Centenary

University of Allahabad Centenary Commemoration

Founding and Early Years:

• Conception: The idea for a large Central College at Allahabad, which eventually developed into a University, is credited to Sir William Muir, the then Governor.
• Establishment: The College began operating on July 1, 1872, in a rental building named “Lowther Castle,” with Mr. Augustus Harrison as Principal, four other teachers, and about a dozen students in the Arts Department.

Architectural Development:

• Design: The College’s present site was designed by eminent English architect W. Emerson in a modified Saracenic style.
• Foundation Stone: Laid on December 9, 1937, by Lord Borthbrook, Viceroy and Governor of India.
• Completion: The building took twelve years to complete at a cost of Rs. 9 lacs, including teaching accommodation, the Vizianagaram tower, the hall, and the library built of stone.
• Inauguration: The building, known as Muir Central College, was formally opened on April 8, 1886, by Lord Dufferin.

University Status:

• Affiliation: Initially affiliated with Calcutta University.
• Incorporation: Act XVIII incorporating the University of Allahabad was passed on September 23, 1887, officially establishing the University.
• First Convocation: Held on November 15, 1887, addressed by Hon’ble Sir Alfred Comyns Lyall, marking the University as a Degree conferring institution.

Expansion and Growth:

• Territorial Limits: After the passing of the Indian University Act VIII of 1904, the University was meant to serve an area of 4,52,830 square miles with a population of about 9 crores.
• New Buildings: Foundations for the present University Senate Hall and adjoining buildings were laid on January 17, 1910, by the then Chancellor Sir John Hewett, with an expenditure of over Rs. 10 lacs.

Modern Development:

• Role Evolution: In 1922, the University acquired a double role as a unitary, residential university and as an affiliated body for outlying colleges.
• Residential Institution: By 1927, the University started functioning purely as a teaching and residential institution.

Contributions and Achievements:

• Notable Figures: The University has produced scholars, teachers, scientists, artists, literati, jurists, diplomats, soldiers, sportsmen, administrators, industrialists, politicians, and social workers who have brought distinction to their alma mater.
• Student Union: The contributions of its student union have also been remarkable.
• Growth: Over the past 100 years, the University has grown significantly with over 15,000 students and various teaching departments. It now includes faculties of Engineering and Medicine and numerous technical and professional courses, incorporating both constituent and associated colleges.

The commemoration of the centenary of the University of Allahabad is a testament to its enduring legacy and its significant contributions to national and international fields across a variety of disciplines.