The Nation Bids Farewell to a Distinguished Scholar… Professor Mohammed Osman Saleh| Sudanow Magazine

Khartoum (Sudanow) — With deep sorrow and profound grief, the nation bids farewell to one of the most prominent scholars of Sudan and the wider Islamic world, a steadfast pillar and a leading figure in Islamic thought and preaching—Professor Mohammed Osman Saleh, who passed away on Saturday, March 28, in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, after a lifetime rich in scholarly, missionary, and administrative contributions. Throughout his career, he left a deep and lasting impact on the Islamic sphere both within Sudan and beyond.

Professor Mohammed Osman Saleh was the founding father of the Sudanese Scholars Association. He devoted his life to serving religion, spreading knowledge, and promoting the values of moderation and balance. He was a voice of wisdom in times of turmoil and a guiding light for those navigating periods of discord. The late scholar—may Allah have mercy on him—was an institution in his own right, combining profound knowledge, sharp insight, and a sincere national stance. He contributed significantly to shaping intellectual awareness, educating generations, and remained actively engaged in all aspects of religious outreach and reform, unwavering in upholding the truth.

With his passing, Sudan loses one of its most loyal figures, and the field of religious scholarship loses a wise mind and a heart devoted to both the homeland and the Muslim community. Yet, consolation lies in the enduring legacy he leaves behind—an indelible impact and a noble life story that will continue to testify to his sincerity and dedication.

The late scholar was among the most distinguished figures who contributed to consolidating a moderate Islamic approach and promoting balanced Islamic thought. He also played a pivotal role in establishing and developing numerous academic and religious institutions.

A Life Dedicated to Service

The late Professor devoted his life to education, scholarship, and service to the Muslim community. His career spanned teaching, administration, academic research, and public service. He held several senior positions and contributed to the graduation of generations of scholars and preachers.

He was widely recognized for his strong intellectual presence and his contributions addressing issues of Islamic creed and interfaith dialogue, in addition to his engagement with broader societal matters.

Curriculum Vitae of Professor Mohammed Osman Saleh

Birth and Early Life
Born in 1942
Northern State – Merowe (Maqashi)
Married with children

Field of Specialization
Islamic Creed and Comparative Religion

Academic Qualifications
Bachelor’s Degree in Islamic Studies – Omdurman Islamic University (1966)
Master’s and PhD – University of Edinburgh (1970–1976)

Professional Career

Lecturer, Assistant Professor, then Associate Professor – Omdurman Islamic University

Assistant Professor and Head of the Department of Orientalism – Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University (Higher Institute, Madinah) (1982–1990)

Dean, Faculty of Da‘wah (Islamic Preaching) and Media – Omdurman Islamic University (1990–1992)

Professor, University of the Holy Qur’an; later Vice Chancellor (1992–1993)

Minister of Education and Guidance – South Kordofan State (1993–1995)

Director, International Center for Faith Research (1995–2001)

Vice Chancellor – Omdurman Islamic University (2001–2009)

Secretary-General – Sudanese Scholars Association (1999–2013)

President – Sudanese Scholars Association

Vice President – Supreme Council for Islamic Preaching in Sudan

Member – Islamic Fiqh Academy of Sudan

Publications

The Conflict of Religious Communities over Palestine and Lebanon

Christianity and Missionary Activity

Al-Ihtisab (Seeking Divine Reward/Accountability) and its Impact on Community Building

An Introduction to the Study of Religions

Qur’anic Inimitability in the Economic System (A Study in Light of the 2009 Global Financial Crisis)

In addition to numerous research papers and published studies

Research and Academic Publishing

Journal of the University of the Holy Qur’an

Journal of Omdurman Islamic University

Journal of Africa International University

Journal of Imam Muhammad ibn Saud Islamic University

Faith Research Journal (Editor-in-Chief)

Al-Minbar Magazine (Chairman of the Board)

Memberships

Founding Member and Chairman of the Board of Trustees – International Islamic Women’s Center

Member – Central Qur’an Society of Sudan

Member – Council for Interfaith Dialogue and Religious Coexistence in Sudan

Member – Board of Trustees, International Union of Muslim Scholars

Member – Scientific Miracles Commission, Muslim World League (Makkah)

A Loss That Leaves a Great Void

With the passing of Professor Mohammed Osman Saleh, Sudan loses a towering scholarly and religious figure who dedicated his life to serving religion, knowledge, and society. He contributed to building enduring intellectual and academic institutions that will remain a lasting testament to his remarkable legacy.

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