Cumilla Victoria Government College. Photo: BSS

By Delwar Hossain Akaid 

CUMILLA, Nov 24, 2025 (BSS) - Cumilla Victoria Government College—an institution synonymous with enlightenment, values, and leadership—celebrated its 126th founding anniversary today. 

For more than a century, the college has stood as a beacon of higher education, shaping generations with knowledge, moral principles, and social responsibility.

Established in 1899 by philanthropist and landowner Roy Bahadur Anandachandra Roy, the college was named after Queen Victoria of the United Kingdom. Roy donated generously to establish the institution, earning him the title “Roy Bahadur” from the British Indian government.

His vision was to create access to higher education in the Cumilla region, and under his initiative, the college soon became a prominent academic center in sub-continent.  

In its early years, the institution offered limited subject-based education with a small number of teachers and modest infrastructure. Despite these constraints, the passion for education among students and faculty ensured steady progress.

Following the 1947 partition, the college began implementing its own development plans. After the independence of Bangladesh, it introduced honors and master’s programs in the humanities, science and commerce streams.

 Many of its teachers and students played significant roles in the 1971 Liberation War, sacrificing their lives for the country.

Today, Cumilla Victoria Government College boasts a large, vibrant campus equipped with a rich library, research facilities, and numerous academic programmes.  Students actively participate not only in classroom learning but also in research, debates, cultural activities, drama, sports, and social development initiatives.

College Principal Md. Abul Bashar Bhuiyan told BSS, “Our institution has reached a new height with its century-old legacy. Here, students develop not only through academics but also as human beings. Our aim is to nurture their talent, values, and humanity so they can contribute meaningfully to the nation’s future.”

Assistant Professor of Islamic Studies Mohammad Mahbubul Alam highlighted the college’s tradition of discipline, humility and respect, adding, “We combine traditional and modern education to help students grow in all dimensions.”

Retired Associate Teacher Md. Abu Zafar emphasized the importance of the college library, which houses rare books, historical documents, and valuable research materials. “This institution develops both intellectual ability and human qualities,” he noted.

Former students also recalled the college’s profound influence on their lives. 

Alumni member Mahbub Alam said the institution shaped his outlook and leadership skills, while former VP Ashiqur Rahman Mahmud Wasim described it as a hub of democratic practice and cultural learning. “This institution makes people,” he said.

Current students expressed similar pride. Twelfth-grader Moumita Paran Nishi said studying at the college is an honor that deepens their sense of responsibility. 

Another student, Nahidul Islam, remarked, “Every corner of the campus carries history. Learning here builds both mind and character.”

The library remains a cornerstone of academic inspiration, offering rare and ancient books, research materials, and documents that contribute significantly to students’ historical awareness and research skills.

Principal Bashar reiterated the institution’s broader mission: “We want this college to be known not just for academics, but as a center for developing the country’s human resources and social conscience.”

With its rich history, the achievements of its alumni, and its continuing commitment to modern education, Cumilla Victoria Government College remains a powerful force in shaping Bangladesh’s educational and social landscape—an enduring institution dedicated to human development.