Prof. Akbar Manoussi:
Iran is a nation of vibrant youth and brilliant minds. Yet this immense potential will only flourish when our universities and research institutions are aligned with the real needs of society and the job market. When that connection is made, this generation will shape a future that not only transforms Iran but inspires the world.
Academic Activities
Professor Akbar Manousi, with several decades of experience in higher education, has consistently sought to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and the real needs of society. He firmly believes that universities should serve as platforms for empowering the younger generation and nurturing creative, responsible leaders for the future.
His most notable academic initiatives include:
His most notable academic initiatives include:
- Expanding educational partnerships between universities in Iran, Canada, and other countries
- Designing and delivering joint academic and professional programs in economics and management
- Hosting and organizing international academic conferences and research symposiums
- Developing market-oriented and entrepreneurship-focused academic programs
- Establishing research centers in the fields of management and economics
- Supporting scholars and young entrepreneurs in their pursuit of advanced education and professional growth
As a result of these efforts, thousands of students have entered the workforce equipped with modern knowledge and practical skills, contributing meaningfully to the advancement of economics and management in their respective communities.
Professor Manousi’s academic legacy lies in cultivating a generation of professionals capable of driving innovation, shaping economic policy, and leading with integrity in an ever-changing world.
Professor Manousi’s academic legacy lies in cultivating a generation of professionals capable of driving innovation, shaping economic policy, and leading with integrity in an ever-changing world.
Political Activities
Professor Akbar Manousi views politics as a means of serving society and improving the quality of life for all citizens. Throughout his years of engagement in Canada’s public sphere, he has worked to strengthen the participation and visibility of the Iranian–Canadian community within the country’s democratic framework.
His most notable political and civic contributions include:
His most notable political and civic contributions include:
- Holding senior executive positions within the Liberal Party, followed by serving as President of the Green Party of Canada
- Running as a candidate in both provincial and federal parliamentary elections
- Meeting and consulting with government officials and members of parliament on policy initiatives
- Providing advisory input on economic and social policy development
- Leading initiatives in clean energy and sustainable development as Head of the Department of Renewable Energy and Faculty Member at Willis College in Ottawa
These experiences have established Professor Manousi as a respected and trusted figure in Canadian political life. His efforts have built bridges between the Iranian–Canadian community and Canada’s political institutions, paving the way for greater civic participation and more inclusive decision-making at the national level.
Social Engagement
Professor Akbar Manousi believes that personal success gains its true value only when it is accompanied by a sense of social responsibility. Throughout his life, he has dedicated a significant part of his time and expertise to humanitarian, community, and civic causes — both in Canada and abroad.
His key areas of involvement include:
His key areas of involvement include:
- Active participation in international charitable and non-governmental organizations
- Engagement in cultural and social events across Iran and Canada
- Organizing and coordinating community fundraising campaigns to support those in need — from food bank initiatives in Iran to disaster relief efforts abroad, including earthquake and flood response programs
- Supporting civil society organizations and promoting intercultural dialogue among Canada’s diverse communities — home to over 190 ethnic and national groups
- Advocating for the rights of ethnic, religious, and social minorities, and maintaining long-standing relationships with Canada’s Indigenous peoples (approximately 1.4 million citizens as of 2023), including participation in annual tribal gatherings and visits to Indigenous territories across the country
These ongoing efforts have played a meaningful role in strengthening social cohesion and fostering civic participation. With a humanistic and globally minded approach, Professor Manousi continues to demonstrate that knowledge and social responsibility can walk hand in hand toward building a better and more compassionate society.
Economic Initiatives
Building on his academic background in economics and extensive experience in management, Professor Akbar Manousi has consistently sought to strengthen economic relations and promote pathways toward sustainable development. Alongside his academic and research work, he has also played an active role in the practical spheres of business and international trade.
His key initiatives in this area include:
His key initiatives in this area include:
- Providing economic consulting and strategic planning services to governmental organizations
- Expanding trade relations and fostering international economic cooperation
- Organizing conferences and specialized workshops in economics, management, and strategic leadership
- Hosting business forums and networking events across Canada and South America
- Collaborating with professional associations and chambers of commerce in both Canada and Iran
- Promoting knowledge transfer and workforce empowerment to prepare professionals for participation in global markets
Through these efforts, Professor Manousi has helped bridge the gap between the public and private sectors, creating new opportunities for international collaboration and contributing to sustainable economic growth.
Professor Akbar Manousi
A Bridge Between Knowledge, Politics, and Culture
The life and work of Professor Akbar Manousi reflect his deep belief that knowledge, politics, social responsibility, and economics are inseparable pillars of progress. In his view, these fields complement and reinforce one another, forming the foundation of a purposeful and balanced society.
In academia, he has educated new generations of leaders and entrepreneurs. In politics, he has served as a voice for people and the environment. Through his civic and social engagement, he has championed solidarity, inclusion, and responsible citizenship. And in the fields of economics and business, he has pursued sustainable development and stronger global connections between Iran, Canada, and the international community.
His lifelong journey stands as an example of a true global citizen — deeply rooted in Iran, flourishing through experience in Canada, and dedicated to serving the wider world.
Professor Manousi’s name is recognized not only within academic and research circles but also in the realms of politics, economics, and culture — always associated with integrity, foresight, and action. He has shown that one individual can indeed become a bridge between nations — a bridge built on knowledge, shaped by civic engagement, and directed toward shared progress and sustainable development.