Government College University Lahore commonly referred to as GCU is one of the oldest and most illustrious higher education public research University of Pakistan. In fact it is privileged to be one of the oldest and most eminent university in the Muslim world. Gottlied Wilhelm (a professor at the Kings College London) founded the Government College in 1864, originally Government College was affiliated to Calcutta University. However in 1882, Government College received its affiliation from the University of Punjab. To acknowledge the commendable services rendered by the GC in the field of higher education, the Government of Pakistan granted Government College the status of a full-fledge university in 2002.
In order to preserve the historical roots of the GC, the word “college” was not removed from its title and hence the university is now called: Government College University Lahore.
This prestigious institution is located conveniently in the heart of Lahore, Near Nasir Bagh, Katchery Road, Lahore. The location on the university is quite ideal and approachable. The beautiful historical but well maintained building of the GCU is situated amongst the lush green gardens which provide serenity and tranquility. The university provides a post card view from the main road: The tall red brick temple of the building peeks out from the foliage of lush green trees.
GCU is known to be one of the largest university of Lahore that accommodates a fairly large student body.
Around 10,000 students enroll the GCU per year. The university is known to have produce some of the most competent and ambitious students. Many notable alumni (called Ravians) are found in the roster of the GCU, including two great Nobel Laureates Har Bind Khorana & Dr.Abdus Salam. The national poet and philosopher of Pakistan Dr. Allama Iqbal has also been a student of the Government College. A number of Rhodes Scholars, couple of Prime Ministers and the World Court President Muhammad Zaffarullah Khan have also graduated from the Government College. The university has set the record of producing highest number of graduates per year in the country.
GCU has a dedicated and committed faculty which consists of about 400 well qualified and experienced professors and instructors. Most of the professors at GCU hold a Ph.D. and degree hence they are experts in their fields. GCU delivers premium higher education in several disciplines however the specialties of GCU are Science and Arts.GCU is authorized to award Under-graduate, Post-graduate and Doctoral Studied degrees. There are four notable and well-established faculties, 29 academic departments and four sophisticated research institutes existing on the campus.
In 2013, The GCU was awarded a second position by the Higher Education Commission Pakistan in the medium category.
The GCU has retained its legacy by providing support to academic, research and social community of Pakistan from more than 150 years.
Here is a list of the salient features of the university:
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A student service center (SSC) which is housed in a custom-built building. The SSC provides career services, counselling services, mess facilities, health and emergency services, and a 24/7 internet connection. The SSC consists of a resource full library, a spacious seminar hall and a book store.
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There is a masjid built inside the university to facilitate students to observe the religious practices.
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The cafeterias are large and fully furnished to cater the students with fresh and hygeinc food on campus.
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The students are provided a conducive learning environment so that they can be benefited academically, culturally and intellectually.