Since 1947, a university in Rangpur region has been a long-cherished dream. In 2001, the then Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, laid the foundations of Rangpur University of Science and Technology. However, later on, the establishment was canceled. It was not until August 2007 when Fakhruddin Ahmed, chief advisor of the Caretaker Government, agreed in principle to establish a full-fledged university in Rangpur. Fakhruddin Ahmad, in a historic cabinet meeting held in Rangpur on 2 February 2008, decided to establish a university in Rangpur. The Rangpur University Ordinance was approved by the cabinet on 15 June 2008. M. Lutfar Rahman was appointed the first vice-chancellor on 20 October 2008. Two days later Hossain Zillur Rahman, the then education and commerce advisor to the Caretaker Government formally inaugurated the university.