“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.”
The first mention of St. Stephen’s College in Delhi occurs in the Report for the Delhi Mission of the Society for the Propagation of the Gospel in 1864. The roots of the College led to St. Stephen’s High School, founded by Samuel Scott Allnutt, the chaplain of Delhi under the Delhi Mission of the United Society.
A rented house near the Old Delhi Gate acted as the first premises of the College. The College’s purpose was to serve as a training ground for native Christian teachers. The curriculum of the College also dealt with broader subjects such as history, geography, and mathematics.
In 1877, the College migrated to a larger building in Kashmiri Gate.
On 1 February 1881, it was renamed St. Stephen’s College. Rev. S. S. Allnutt served as its first principal.
The College continued to grow, and its curriculum expanded to include science, economics and other modern subjects. The College also developed a reputation for its high academic standards.
In the 1930s, the College shifted to its present location in the University Enclave in what is now North Campus.
Over the years, the College has grown to become a premier institution of higher learning. The College has impressive alumni, including several Nobel laureates, prominent politicians, and social activists. Notable people include ex-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, ex-President Pratibha Patil, former Chief Justice of India J.S. Verma, and former Chief Justice of India P.N. Bhagwati.
Today, St. Stephen’s College is an esteemed institution of higher learning in India and is known for its excellence in teaching and research. In addition to providing a rigorous academic curriculum, the College facilitates a platform for students to be engaged in extracurricular activities and to explore their interests.
Education is an essential aspect of life. It not only opens doors to opportunities but also helps shape and mould us into the people we are today. Education can never be taken away from us and is the key to success in a rapidly changing world.
To celebrate the founding of St. Stephen’s College, one of the oldest centres of education in India, KarmaPlay is hosting an Education Quiz. Take out your books and start preparing!