Political realities of developing countries have traditionally been dominated by international pressures from industrially developed policies and national interests through the establishment of non-democratic powerful central governments. As such, no competitive economic infrastructure exists, and private companies do not have the necessary incentives to get involved in risk-prone activities. In this environment, universities and research centers conduct routine activities with little room for innovative approaches and applied research leading to product and/or system development. The design and implementation of policies and processes needed to move from the status quo to a vibrant environment in the chain of knowledge to wealth requires careful studies with the objective of smooth transition with minimal disruptive actions resulting from resistance to change at various levels.
Sharif Energy, Water, and Environmental Institute (SEWEI)
Islamic Republic of Iran