Established in 1973, Kumaun University, nestled in Uttarakhand, emerged from the merger of two eminent government colleges, namely, D.S.B. Government P.G. College, Nainital and Almora Government P.G. College. Kumaun University earned its recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC) in New Delhi under Section 12-B of the UGC Act, 1956. This recognition enabled the University to receive consistent support from the UGC. Over time, the University transformed from a mere institution to a leading academic beacon for thousands in the Kumaun Region of Uttarakhand.
Recognizing the diverse educational needs of Kumaun's remote areas, the State Legislature implemented the SSJ University Act (Act No. 20 of 2019). This decision led to the bifurcation of Kumaun University and the establishment of SSJ University Almora. This pivotal change was officially announced by the Uttarakhand Government on 22nd June 2020 through Order No. 168/XXXVI (3) 2020/ 771/ 2019.
Now, the Kumaun University's sprawling campuses at D.S.B., Nainital and Sir J C Bose at Bhimtal cover an area of approximately 160 acres, featuring state-of-the-art facilities. With affiliations to 20 government colleges, 61 private institutions, and a government-aided college, the university supports around 1,50,000 students, making it Uttarakhand's largest.
A key feature that sets Kumaun University apart is its unwavering commitment to delivering an inclusive educational environment, irrespective of background, race, or faith. The institution diligently fosters a spirit of innovation, civic responsibility, and personal integrity. Its endeavors to bridge the gap between academia, government, and industry are commendable.
Over the past three years, the university has focused on establishing recognized departments for both scientific and social research. This initiative has garnered attention from faculty members and students countrywide. Pre-Uttarakhand state formation, Kumaun University set benchmarks for state universities in terms of academic rigor, student discipline, resource generation, and maintaining a conducive learning environment. Such standards earned the university an 'A' Grade accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) in 2015.
Offering a rich tapestry of courses, Kumaun University boasts eight faculties encompassing diverse fields from Arts, Sciences, Commerce, Management, Education, Law, Technology, to Visual Arts. Furthermore, the university pioneers several self-finance courses, ensuring flexibility and inclusivity.
Internationally, the University doesn't lag. It embarked on a prestigious project, "Landscape Asia," in collaboration with the University of Paris, spotlighting transformation processes in five Asian countries. Collaborative research ventures also extend to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, USA, and Trinity College, Dublin, Ireland. The establishment of the Centre for Nanoscience and Nanotechnology in partnership with global institutions underlines Kumaun University's vision to lead in cutting-edge research.
An essential facet of the university's operations is its Resource Development Centre. Established in 2007, this first-of-its-kind centre in Uttarakhand aims at teacher training and innovative extension in higher education. Upholding UGC's guidelines, the university constituted the Internal Quality Assurance Cell in 2009, emphasizing quality in teaching, research, and administrative activities.
For the empowerment and development of women, the university's dedicated centre functions diligently, resonating with national goals. Leveraging modern technology, Kumaun University's Digital Initiative Cell continually updates information related to academic and administrative functions, providing a streamlined experience for stakeholders.
The National Cadet Corps and NSS Units of the university play pivotal roles in student development. Their activities span from environmental upgradation, societal awareness campaigns, discipline drives, to various other initiatives. Honouring literary greats, the university has dedicated the “Mahadevi Verma Peeth” for research in language and literature, generously funded by the Government of Uttarakhand.
In the realm of law, the Dr. Rajendra Prasad Law Institute houses the “Free Legal Aid and Counselling Centre,” ensuring legal aid is accessible to all. Another commendable endeavour is the establishment of a Community College under the aegis of the UGC.
Kumaun University's alumni are a testament to its excellence. With achievers spanning various fields, from Padma Award winners, Scientists, Writers, to Bureaucrats, the University has significantly impacted diverse sectors.
Kumaun University, deeply anchored in values of trust, safety, and respect, is on a trajectory to distinguish itself as a global frontrunner in education with a special emphasis on job readiness. Aiming for an all-encompassing student experience, the University seeks to build cross-sectoral collaborations. Recent recognitions, such as its 30th placement in The India Today Group Survey (2023), 61st position in NIRF (Pharmacy Category), along with noteworthy ranks of 551-600 globally and 145 nationally in the QS BRICS Countries Survey (2022), speak volumes about its academic prowess. Additionally, the University's UGC HRDC has made its mark, clinching the 4th rank nationally in the 2022 NAAC evaluation by UGC.
In sum, Kumaun University, steeped in its illustrious past, offers a wide spectrum of courses and, with a clear vision, stands as a paragon of educational excellence globally.