Military College Jhelum (MCJ) is an esteemed educational institution located in Punjab province, which is renowned for its academic excellence and comprehensive military training. Established in 1922, the college follows a disciplined and structured approach to education and fosters leadership skills, character development, and physical fitness among its students.
In this article, Graana.com provides details about the institution’s history, admission process, academic curriculum, facilities, military training and more.
MCJ is the oldest military institution of its kind in Pakistan. It is an English medium institution, offering classes from VIII to XII. Situated on the Grand Trunk (GT) Road near the town of Sarai Alamgir, the college covers an expansive area of approximately 170 acres.
Established on March 3, 1922, by Prince Edward VIII (the then Prince of Wales), it was initially named King George Royal Indian Military School (KGRIMS or KGR). Moreover, Sister schools/colleges were subsequently established in Jalandhar (1922), Ajmer (1930), Belgaum (1945), and Bangalore (1946).
Initially serving as a residential school for the children of soldiers who served in World War I, it started functioning after three years, on September 15, 1925. The primary objective was to produce educated personnel for the British Indian Army.
In rare cases, talented students were endorsed for commission grants through Kitchener College Nowgong. During World War II, the institution underwent structural reforms and was elevated to the status of King George Royal Indian Military College in 1943, focusing on training potential army officers.
Following the creation of Pakistan, the institution was renamed as Royal Pakistan Military College Jhelum. In 1956, it assumed its present name, Military College Jhelum, and expanded both in scope and service. It was restructured as a quality public school with the role of a feeder institution for the Pakistan Military Academy, emphasising academic excellence and personality development.
Initially, the school consisted of two houses, Roberts House and Birdwood House, when it started in 1925. Sakeen House was established in 1928. Class nine was introduced in 1930, and the first year was added in 1931. The first batch of students completed five years of training/studies successfully in October 1930. In 1967, Roberts House was renamed Sher Shah House and functioned as a junior house until 1989.
It now serves as the administrative and visitor block. Mehmood Ghaznavi House (formerly Birdwood House) and Babur House (formerly Skeen House) were added in 1958. Currently, there are seven houses: Mehmood Ghaznavi House, Babur House, Aurangzeb House, Tipu Sultan House, Jinnah House, Iqbal House, and Sir Syed House. In 1991, the number of cadets increased from 320 to 500, and it is currently 600 with 20 day scholars.
The college adopted its first motto, “Virtue non Verbis” meaning “virtue, not verbosity,” in 1938. In 1947, it was replaced by a Persian maxim, “توانا بود هر که دانا بود,” meaning “He who is wise, is strong”. In 1956, the current motto “علم و عمل” meaning “Knowledge and Action” was adopted.
Over the years, the college has celebrated various milestones. It commemorated its Silver Jubilee on November 27, 1950, Golden Jubilee in November 1975, Diamond Jubilee in November 1986, Platinum Jubilee on September 15, 1999, and the Centenary of its Foundation Stone Laying on March 3, 2022.
The college has been committed to serving the nation, and its alumni have made significant contributions with unwavering dedication. The Roll of Honour proudly displays the names of martyrs, heroes, and senior officers in both civil and military establishments.
As of August 31, 2022, the college has had one Nishan-e-Haider recipient, Major Mohammad Akram Shaheed, along with four Military Cross awardees and numerous recipients of Sitara-i-Jurat, Tamgha-i-Jurat, and Tamgh-i-Shujaat. Forty-three alumni have laid down their lives in the line of duty.
Distinguished Alamgirians include high-ranking officials such as the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Air Chief Marshal, Naval Chief, Vice Chief, and Army Chiefs. Some notable alumni are General (R) Muhammad Iqbal Khan, Air Chief Marshal (R) Zulfiqar Ali Khan, Admiral (R) Abdul Aziz Mirza, General (R) Muhammad Yousaf Khan, and General (R) Ashfaq Parvez Kayani.
In addition, the college has produced 94 General Officers, over 300 Brigadiers, over 2000 Colonels/Lieutenant colonels, and a significant number of highly placed officers in civil services. Alamgirians have also excelled at the Pakistan Military Academy and foreign academies, with 40 recipients of the prestigious Sword of Honour.
The admission process is highly competitive and rigorous. Candidates are selected based on their academic performance, physical fitness, and overall potential. In addition, the college conducts an entrance examination that assesses the applicants’ knowledge, analytical skills, and aptitude. Successful candidates undergo a medical examination and an interview before final admission.
The comprehensive academic curriculum is designed to prepare students for higher education and various competitive exams. The college follows the syllabus prescribed by the Federal Board of Intermediate and Secondary Education.
Moreover, the curriculum includes subjects such as Mathematics, English, Urdu, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Computer Science. In addition to academic pursuits, the college also emphasises character-building, discipline, and ethical values.
Military College Jhelum boasts state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure to provide a conducive learning environment for its students. Moreover, the campus is equipped with modern classrooms, well-equipped science and computer laboratories, a library, an auditorium, and sports facilities.
Furthermore, the college also provides boarding facilities, ensuring a comfortable and secure living arrangement for the students.
The college aims to develop leadership qualities, physical fitness, and discipline through its military training programs. Cadets receive training in drill, weapon handling, map reading, field craft, and other essential military skills. In addition, this training instils a sense of patriotism, teamwork, and self-discipline in the students.
The college places great importance on sports and co-curricular activities to ensure the holistic development of its students. The college has extensive sports facilities and encourages students to participate in various sports such as cricket, football, hockey, athletics, and swimming.
Furthermore, it organises debates, declamation contests, quizzes, and cultural events to promote intellectual and creative growth among the students.
Studying here offers numerous benefits to the students:
Academic Excellence: The college provides a rigorous academic environment that focuses on intellectual growth and prepares students for higher education.
Character Development: Military training and a disciplined routine help develop strong character traits such as leadership, integrity, and resilience.
Physical Fitness: The emphasis on sports and physical training ensures that students maintain a healthy and active lifestyle.
Career Opportunities: Graduates have opportunities to join the armed forces, pursue higher education, or excel in various professional fields.
Military College Jhelum is a prestigious educational institution that combines academic excellence with military training. Moreover, the college equips students with the skills and qualities necessary to succeed in their chosen paths, whether it be in the armed forces, academia, or any other profession.
However, by providing a holistic education, it prepares young individuals to become responsible citizens and future leaders of the nation.
Yes, it is an all-boys institution.
The age limit for admission varies depending on the class. Generally, it ranges from 12 to 16 years.
No, it is open only to Pakistani nationals.
Yes, it offers scholarships to deserving students, based on their academic performance and financial need.
Graduates can join the armed forces, pursue higher education in prestigious institutions, or excel in various professional fields.
For more information, visit Graana.com.
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