About the College

The Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College in Kozhikode stands as one of Kerala’s most historic educational institutions, having delivered quality education since its establishment in 1877. Initially founded as Kerala Vidyashala to educate the ruling family’s members, the college has evolved over the past 147 years into a renowned center for higher learning. The college now offers 12 undergraduate programs, 10 postgraduate courses, and houses 7 research centers, serving thousands of students.

The Zamorins, who ruled Kozhikode, were instrumental in tranforming the city as a prominent medieval port town and international trade hub for spices and textiles. Known for their prosperous maritime trade and significant political influence in medieval Kerala, the Zamorins played a pivotal role in shaping the region’s history. It was during their reign that Vasco da Gama landed at Kappad Beach in 1498, marking a significant moment in history.

The Zamorins were patrons of arts, literature, and culture, hosting the grand martial arts festival, Mamankam, and fostering intellectual growth through events like Revathi Pattathanam at the Tali Temple. Their dedication to learning led to the creation of the Kerala Vidyasala in 1877 by H.H. Manavikraman Maharaja Bahadur, K.C.S.I., F.M.U. This institution was established to provide English education to the young members of the Zamorin family and has grown to become a leading center of higher education over the past 147 years.

The college’s inception began with the establishment of an English school in June 1877, which significantly influenced the educational and intellectual landscape of Malabar. H.H. Sri. Manavikrama Maharaja Bahadur, K.C.S.I., F.M.U., the Zamorin of Calicut, initiated this endeavor alongside the Senior Rajas of his family and Mr. Logan, the then Collector of Malabar. The school operated in the Zamorin’s Palace at Tali, with Mr. Ceril M. Barrow as Headmaster. A year later, it was renamed “Kerala Vidyasala,” and the Madras Government recognized the institution’s public spirit by granting funds for library and science equipment.

In 1879, the institution was affiliated with the University of Madras as a Second Grade College. By 1900, it was renamed “Zamorin’s College,” and the Zamorin administered its affairs until 1904, when a Board of Management was established. In 1915, the college became inclusive of all pupils, regardless of caste, creed, or color, under the management of the court of wards. Following the court of wards’ relinquishment in 1927, a new Board of Management was formed, which included seven members.

The Guruvayur Devaswam generously contributed to the college’s development, providing significant financial support for its growth. In 1951, the college acquired a new site at Pokkunnu, spanning 92 acres, and received substantial funding from the Guruvayur Devaswam funds. The institution was renamed “The Guruvayurappan College” in recognition of these contributions, which were vital in achieving First Grade Status. The college relocated to the Pokkunnu campus in 1955, and in 1981, it was renamed “The Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College.”

Following the state reorganization in 1956, the college affiliated with the University of Travancore, later becoming the University of Kerala, and is now affiliated with the University of Calicut, established in 1968. The college’s governing body operates under the provisions of the Calicut University Act.

In 2017, the college was reaccredited with an “A” grade by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council, a testament to its excellence in education. The institution scored a CGPA of 3.06 on a 7-point scale, as evaluated by a peer team from the University Grants Commission.

The Zamorin’s Guruvayurappan College has consistently provided quality education to generations of students who have gone on to excel in various fields, achieving significant societal roles. The institution honors the legacy of the Zamorin rulers for their vision in establishing a center of learning on a scenic hilltop, promoting intellectual growth and moral values. Through non-discriminatory practices and a commitment to social justice, the college continues to make significant contributions to knowledge production and dissemination.
Our Vision
The vision of the college is to help the students achieve academic excellence and play the role of socially responsible individuals by including social values. All the efforts are directed towards the achievement of this vision.

Our Mission
Our central mission is to provide sufficient nourishment to an individual through the right combination of environmental setting and quality service, in order to rise towards excellence, along with individual efforts.

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