Remembering Kamal Salih, a True Scholar and Educator
Kamal Salih, a renowned scholar and educator, passed away on March 6, 2025, at the age of 79. I had the privilege of knowing him as a fellow educator, academic, and friend for the last 25 years.
A Gifted Mind
Kamal was blessed with a remarkable mind, and despite being trained as a geographer, he developed a strong understanding of economics and finance, earning recognition for his economic models and financial analyses.
A Nation Builder
He was a strong nationalist who did not hesitate to criticize government policies and actions that he deemed harmful to the nation. He believed that meritocracy should be the cornerstone of public policy, with necessary considerations for affirmative action. He was particularly critical of the country’s tertiary education system, citing its low quality of teaching and research.
Education and Training
Kamal believed that the education system needed a complete overhaul, starting from scratch. He advocated for a flexible system that allowed for continuing education and upskilling. He also emphasized the importance of international collaboration between universities and research institutions.
Economic Growth and Development
He was a strong proponent of sound economic management, advocating for a reduction in leakages, a broadened tax base, and a decrease in national debt. He believed that the government should lead, but the engine of growth should be the private sector. He also emphasized the need for more decentralization, building competence, and capacity in public administration.
A Legacy Unfulfilled
Despite his significant contributions, Kamal did not receive the recognition he deserved from the corridors of power. He could have made a more significant impact if successive governments had taken his ideas and expertise seriously. As a scholar and educator, that is how Kamal would have wanted us to remember him.
Conclusion
Kamal Salih’s legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of education, economic growth, and nation building. His ideas and contributions may not have been fully recognized during his lifetime, but they will continue to inspire future generations of scholars and educators.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was Kamal Salih’s background?
Kamal was a geographer by training, but he developed a strong understanding of economics and finance. - What were his views on education?
Kamal believed in a flexible education system that allowed for continuing education and upskilling, with a focus on international collaboration between universities and research institutions. - How did he view the government’s role in economic development?
Kamal believed that the government should lead, but the engine of growth should be the private sector, with a focus on reducing leakages, broadening the tax base, and decreasing national debt.