With the Aim of Strengthening the Role of Innovation in Sustainable Economic and Social Development

The first session of the Steering Council of the Innovation and Social Economy Research Institute at the University of Tehran was held, focusing on enhancing the role of innovation in sustainable economic and social progress. The meeting, convened at the Institute’s headquarters, was attended by advisory board members, including:

  • Dr. Shapour Zarei
  • Engineer Behrooz Forootan
  • Dr. Davood Adineh
  • Dr. Foujan Sabahi
  • Dr. Habibpour
  • Dr. Daneshmand
  • Dr. Masoud Lak
  • Dr. Shahram Zarei

During the session, key strategic issues related to improving the Institute's performance in addressing national economic and social challenges were discussed.


Key Topics and Proposals

Formation of a National Union of Social Research Institutes

Among the major proposals discussed was the establishment of a National Union of Social Research Institutes. This initiative aims to foster collaboration among think tanks nationwide and harness existing capacities for research and operational partnerships. Such a union could serve as a vital mechanism to promote synergy and effectively address economic challenges.

Emphasis on University-Industry Collaboration

Dr. Shapour Zarei, head of the Institute, underlined the significance of strengthening the university-industry connection, stating:
"Enhancing this relationship forms the foundation for sustainable economic and social development. We deeply appreciate the commitment and insight of the advisory board members in advancing this shared vision."

This focus provided a basis for many of the proposed strategies and laid the groundwork for future operational initiatives.


Proposal for a National Conference of Social Think Tanks

One of the noteworthy proposals was organizing a National Conference of Social Think Tanks. This event would serve as a platform for dialogue, identification of shared capacities, and development of actionable plans aimed at sustainable economic and social development.

It was agreed that further details regarding the conference would be deliberated upon in subsequent meetings. The members also highlighted the importance of inter-institutional collaborations and strengthening ties with other research institutes and related organizations.


The Role of Innovation in Achieving Sustainable Development

As a leading institution in the field of social and economic research, the Innovation and Social Economy Research Institute at the University of Tehran is committed to addressing the country's key challenges through innovative scientific and practical solutions. With its interdisciplinary approach and specialized expertise, the Institute seeks to foster impactful transformations in social economy and related policymaking.

The Steering Council emphasized that leveraging the intellectual, research, and operational capacities of national think tanks can pave the way for addressing the country's economic and social challenges effectively.

With the pivotal role of innovative research in driving national growth and development, the council is determined to take decisive steps toward fostering a culture of innovation and optimizing the use of human and scientific resources. Regular sessions and strategic decision-making processes are expected to smooth the path toward these objectives.

The Innovation and Social Economy Research Institute at the University of Tehran invites researchers, scholars, and relevant organizations to engage in collaborative efforts toward achieving sustainable development goals.