Discover Raiganj University: A Beacon of Education in North Dinajpur, West Bengal.
Table of Contents
Introduction:
Raiganj University, situated in the serene town of Raiganj within the Uttar Dinajpur district of West Bengal, India, is a prestigious public state university. Established with a rich history dating back to 1948, this institution has evolved over the years and now stands as the oldest center for higher education in North Dinajpur. On February 3, 2015, it achieved the coveted status of a public state university through legislative enactment. Raiganj University offers a diverse range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in liberal arts, ensuring a comprehensive educational experience for its students.
A Historical Perspective:
Raiganj University’s inception is intricately tied to the tumultuous times of India’s partition based on religious lines. As the border district of West Dinajpur welcomed displaced individuals seeking refuge, the need for education became paramount. Visionaries like Late Sukumar Guha and Late Nirmal Chandra Ghosh played pivotal roles in this transformative period. A collective effort led to the establishment of a college for higher education, with the local community generously donating land and resources. In 1948, this college officially opened its doors as an affiliate of the University of Calcutta.
In 1962, the University of North Bengal was established in the northern part of West Bengal, prompting a change in the college’s affiliation. It gradually introduced various Honours degree programs. By 1968, the University of North Bengal decided to integrate Raiganj College as a university college, subsequently renaming it as Raiganj College (University College).
A significant turning point came in 2013 when the Chief Minister of West Bengal, Mamata Banerjee, announced during an administrative meeting in Raiganj that Raiganj College (University College) would be upgraded to a full-fledged university. This vision became a reality on February 3, 2015, with the enactment of the Raiganj University Act.
Campus and Location:
Raiganj University is strategically located in the heart of Raiganj town, the district headquarters of Uttar Dinajpur. The university currently boasts one permanent campus, sprawled across a lush 25-acre expanse.
Organisation and Administration:
Governance at Raiganj University is led by the Vice-chancellor, who serves as the university’s chief executive officer. Presently, Jyotsna Kumar Mondal holds the esteemed position of Vice-chancellor.
Academic Excellence:
Raiganj University houses 22 departments, meticulously organized into two faculties, fostering a dynamic academic environment.
- Faculty of Science and Management:
- Mathematics
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Computer & Information Science
- Statistics
- Microbiology
- Sericulture
- Botany
- Zoology
- Management (Business Administration)
- Faculty of Arts, Commerce & Law:
- Bengali
- English
- Sanskrit
- History
- Political Science
- Philosophy
- Economics
- Education
- Geography
- Sociology
- Commerce
- Law
Admission: Raiganj University
Raiganj University adheres to government policies for admissions. For undergraduate courses, successful completion of the higher secondary (10+2) examination is mandatory. Doctoral and postgraduate level courses require candidates to take entrance examinations, which may be conducted by the university or national agencies like CSIR and UGC.
Accreditation:
Raiganj University proudly holds recognition under Section 2(f) and 12(B) of the UGC Act, solidifying its commitment to delivering quality education.
In conclusion, Raiganj University’s transformation from a humble college to a distinguished public state university underscores its dedication to providing accessible, high-quality education to the people of North Dinajpur and beyond. This institution stands as a beacon of enlightenment, nurturing minds and shaping the future of countless individuals.
Website: https://raiganjuniversity.ac.in/