* Patronage of Scholars: Askia Muhammad welcomed scholars and intellectuals from across the Muslim world to Timbuktu, providing them with housing and stipends. He established a prestigious court where scholars debated religious and scientific issues, contributing to the city's intellectual vibrancy.
* Building Mosques and Schools: He commissioned the construction of numerous mosques and madrasas (Islamic schools) in Timbuktu, providing physical spaces for learning and religious study. These institutions became centers of knowledge, attracting students from across the region.
* Promoting Islamic Learning: Askia Muhammad emphasized the importance of Islamic education, promoting the study of the Quran, Islamic law (Sharia), and other religious texts. He also supported the development of a rich tradition of scholarship in Arabic language and literature.
* Foundation of the Sankore Madrasa: While the Sankore Madrasa existed before Askia's reign, his patronage and support significantly boosted its prominence. It became one of the most renowned centers of Islamic learning in the world, attracting students from as far as North Africa and Europe.
* Encourage Translations and Copying: Askia Muhammad encouraged the translation of important texts from Arabic into local languages, making knowledge more accessible to a wider audience. He also supported the copying of manuscripts, preserving the wealth of knowledge accumulated in Timbuktu.
These actions helped transform Timbuktu into a major center of learning and scholarship, solidifying its reputation as the "City of Salt and Learning." His patronage and support played a critical role in shaping the intellectual landscape of the region and establishing Timbuktu's enduring legacy as a hub of knowledge.