University of Rajshahi being the second largest University in Bangladesh is the highest seat of learning in the Northern region of the country. The necessity of a University in the Northern part of ers while East Pakistan was felt immediately after the creation of Pakistan. Rajshahi University act 1953 (East Bengal Act XV of 1953) was passed by the East Pakistan provincial assembly on March 31, 1953. The assent of the then Governor to establish a University at Rajshahi was first published in the Dhaka Gazette. Extraordinary dated 16th June 1951 and consequently the University started functioning. "Bara Kuthi", 18th century's Dutch trading house was made the administration building. Dr. Itrat Hossain Zeberi was the first Vice-Chancellor of the University. Its normal academic activities began in 1954. During the early days of inception classes were held at Rajshahi Government College. In 1961 the University moved to its present campus.