Government Brennen College, a premier institution in the higher education sector of North Kerala owes its existence to a Master attendant of the Telichery Port, Mr. Edward Brennen who left an endwment of Rs 8,900/- for the opening of a free school "to give boys of all castes, creeds and color a sound English education". Thus the free school was opened on Ist September 1862. In 1890 the institution was upgraded and FA class started with affiliation to Madras University. In 1919 the collge was taken over by the Government and in 1947, the college was accorded the status of a First Grade Instittution, commencing BA classes in Mathematics and Economics.
College was shifted to the new building at Dharmadam in 1958. Government Brennen College celebrated centenary in 1990. The Vice President of India, His Excellency Dr. Shankar Dayal Sharma inaugurated the centenary celebrations. Government Brennen College is recognized as a Center of Excellence by the Government of Kerala. The University Grants Commission had included the college in 12B and 2F Category. In 2011 January, this institution with its entire legacy and quality drive was reaccredited by National Assessment and Accreditation Council with A Grade.
- Affiliated to Madras University: 1890
- Affiliated to Kerala University: 1956
- Affiliated to Calicut University: 1968
- Affiliated to Kannur University: 1996
Campus & Location
The Brennen College Campus is situated in Dharmadam Panchayat on a historic hillock just 5 km north of Thalassery town and 1Km. away from Kannur-Thalassery National Highway. In the approximately 16.5 Acres of land with serene and pristine natural environment, the campus houses the Academic Departments, Administrative Office, Central Library, Students' Hostels, Staff Quarters, Play Ground and other necessary units that provide the basic amenities for staff and students.
The institutional facilities in no way disturb the natural environment of the campus, as it is evident from the impressive presence of 'Santivanam' which is probably the only one conserved pristine forest patch in a college campus in Kerala. The Green House beside the new PG Block and the Medicinal Herbs Garden in front of the Administrative Block also signify the eco-friendly culture of Brennen College