Government College Lahore

What a delightful visit it was to the Old Campus of Government College University in Lahore! This historic institution is nestled in the heart of Downtown Lahore, surrounded by bustling business and administrative areas, schools, colleges, and the Punjab University Old Campus. The main building, a masterpiece designed by W. Purdon, welcomed me with its grandeur and timeless elegance. Completed in 1877 at a cost of Rs. 320,000, the building boasts a towering 176′ clock tower at its center, adding to its majestic charm.

As I wandered through the corridors of this colonial-era gem, I couldn’t help but be enchanted by the neo-Gothic architectural style, featuring broad verandahs and lofty ceilings. The atmosphere exuded a sense of academic legacy and rich history, making me feel like I had stepped back in time.

The vast “Oval Ground” alongside the main building, now known as “The Leitner Oval” in honor of Gottlieb Wilhelm Leitner, the institute’s first principal, provided a perfect spot for students to unwind and socialize. The greenery and open space added a refreshing touch to the campus, making it an ideal place to study, relax, and enjoy the company of friends.

To accommodate the growing number of students, additional buildings and blocks have been thoughtfully designed, including a postgraduate block, a new block for intermediate students, and a bachelors’ block connected by a charming overhead bridge. It was heartwarming to see how the university had adapted and expanded over time, without compromising its architectural charm.

Spanning over an impressive 56 acres, the main campus is gracefully sprawled along the renowned Anarkali Bazaar, which is itself a treasure trove of history and culture. The blend of academic excellence and the bustling market atmosphere created a unique and vibrant ambiance that I couldn’t help but admire.

Government College University has truly nurtured some of Pakistan’s brightest minds. The list of distinguished alumni is awe-inspiring, including poet-philosopher Allama Muhammad Iqbal, Nobel laureates Har Gobind Khorana and Abdus Salam, former president of both the United Nations General Assembly and the International Court of Justice Muhammad Zafarullah Khan, and the esteemed novelist couple Bano Qudsia and Ashfaq Ahmed. The university’s legacy is further enriched by the names of four prime ministers and one caretaker prime minister of Pakistan who once walked these halls.

As I bid farewell to this prestigious institution, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to immerse myself in its academic heritage. The Old Campus of Government College University is a true treasure, where knowledge and history harmoniously blend, inspiring future generations to reach new heights of success and achievement. My visit left me with a sense of awe and admiration for this venerable institution, and I carry with me fond memories of a place where great minds were nurtured and dreams were given wings to soar.