About Gauhati University

Our Foundation

Gauhati University was established on 26 January 1948, marking a significant milestone as the oldest university in Northeast India. Founded under the provisions of an act enacted by the Assam Legislative Assembly, the university's first court meeting was held at the historic Sudmerson Hall of Cotton College, Guwahati.

Growth and Development

From its humble beginnings with 18 affiliated colleges and 8 postgraduate departments, the university has grown exponentially. Today, it boasts:

• 39 postgraduate departments
• A constituent Law and Engineering College
• Institute of Distance and Open Learning (IDOL)
• 341 affiliated colleges offering diverse courses

Historical Movement

The establishment of Gauhati University was the result of a long-standing movement for higher education in Assam. The first public demand for a university in the region was made in 1917 at the annual session of the Assam Association in Sivasagar. A significant step was taken in 1940 with the appointment of S. K. Bhuyan as Special Officer to gather information on site selection and related matters.