The Department of Zoology, Ewing Christian College, Prayagraj, has a rich and proud history spanning more than seven decades. Established in 1951, the Department has played an important role in the teaching and learning of Zoology at the College. Over the years, it has developed from a small teaching department into a centre for undergraduate and postgraduate education, practical training, research, and field-based learning.

Vision

The Department of Zoology aims to provide quality education in life sciences while developing in students a deeper understanding and respect for animals, nature, and the environment. The Department also seeks to promote scientific thinking, ethical values, responsible practices, and a spirit of enquiry among its students.

A Journey of Growth

The Department of Zoology was established in 1951. During its early years, the Department had limited space and facilities and shared the upstairs portion of a building with the Department of Chemistry.
Mr. V. R. Jha was one of the important figures associated with the early development of the Department. He served as the Head of the Department from 1952 to 1976. During his tenure, the Department gradually strengthened its teaching and practical activities.
With the increasing number of students and expansion of academic activities, the need for better facilities became evident. In 1969, the Department moved to a new building. This marked an important milestone in its development and provided additional space for teaching and practical work.
Over the years, the Department expanded its academic activities and introduced programmes that connected classroom education with practical skills and career opportunities.
In 1996, the Department introduced the Diploma in Laboratory Technology (DLT), the first job-oriented course of the College. It was a two-year, part-time evening programme designed to provide students with practical laboratory skills. The programme was also open to students from other institutions.
Another significant development took place during 2015–2016, when the Department introduced the UGC-approved Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc.) in Food Processing. This three-year, full-time degree programme provided students with theoretical knowledge as well as practical training in food processing and its applications.
These programmes added a new dimension to the Department by linking academic learning with practical skills and employment opportunities.
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Education
The Department has continued to provide quality education at the undergraduate level where around 500 students pass out every year. It further strengthened its academic and research activities with the development of postgraduate teaching in 2017. At the postgraduate level, the Department offers specialisation in various areas of Entomology. The Department has successfully conducted its Postgraduate programme to date, with all available seats being filled each year, reflecting the strong demand for postgraduate education in Zoology.
Teaching and learning are supported by practical classes, laboratory training, field visits, seminars, educational tours, and other academic activities. Faculty members and students engage with a wide range of areas in Zoology and related biological sciences.
Research and Academic Development
Research in the Department covers both basic and applied aspects of Zoology. The major areas of research include animals, insects, microorganisms, biodiversity, environmental sciences, and other related fields of biological science.
Faculty members regularly contribute to scientific literature through research papers, review articles, book chapters, and other scholarly publications in reputed journals and publications.
The Department also contributes to higher education and research through the academic guidance of students. Some faculty members serve as Co-Advisors for Ph.D. scholars registered at other universities.
The academic environment of the Department has helped many of its alumni pursue higher studies and successful careers. Several former students have qualified competitive examinations such as CSIR-UGC-NET and GATE and have subsequently enrolled in Ph.D. programmes and other advanced academic programmes.
The Department has a dedicated team of five regular faculty members and one guest faculty who have expertise in different branches of Zoology and at present Dr. Sanjay Masih is serving as the Convenor of the department. The academic experience and commitment of faculty members contribute significantly to the teaching, research, and overall development of the Department.

ZOOLOGIA – The Zoological Association

The Department has an active student academic association, ZOOLOGIA – The Zoological Association. It provides students with opportunities to participate in academic and scientific activities beyond the regular classroom.
Through ZOOLOGIA, students take part in seminars, workshops, lectures, field visits, competitions, quizzes, and other academic and co-curricular activities. These programmes encourage scientific curiosity, creativity, confidence, teamwork, and communication skills.
The Association also provides a platform where students can interact with teachers, fellow students, and experts, thereby enriching their academic experience and developing a broader understanding of Zoology and its applications.
Looking Ahead
With its long academic heritage, dedicated faculty, growing research activities, and well-developed infrastructure, the Department of Zoology, Ewing Christian College, continues to work towards providing meaningful and quality education in the biological sciences.

The Department remains committed to combining sound scientific knowledge, practical learning, research, environmental awareness, and ethical values to prepare students for higher education, competitive examinations, research careers, and diverse professional opportunities in the field of Zoology and allied sciences.