Dhaka College, established on November 20, 1841, stands as one of the subcontinent’s earliest centers of modern education. Founded through the efforts of Dr. James Taylor and Magistrate Mr. Grant, it became the nucleus of English education in East Bengal. The college’s first principal was J. Ireland, a Cambridge graduate and former Hindu College teacher. Over time, Dhaka College evolved through several names and affiliations, contributing significantly to the region’s academic and intellectual development.

The institution played a key role in the establishment of the University of Dhaka in 1921, donating its buildings, books, and equipment. It also pioneered science education in East Bengal in 1875 and produced many renowned scholars and writers, including Akhtaruzzaman Elias and Humayun Ahmed. The college’s campus moved several times before settling permanently in Dhanmondi in 1955.

Currently, Dhaka College offers higher secondary, undergraduate, and postgraduate programs across 20 departments, serving around 22,400 students. Principal Professor A.K.M. Elias emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance educational quality, infrastructure, and digital learning integration.