Two packaging professionals have been awarded fully funded places in the Australasian Institute of Packaging’s (AIP) courses to achieve formal packaging qualifications, through the 2026 ABA Scholarships – an AIP program sponsored by the Australasian Bioplastics Association (ABA).
Andrew Rennie, sales representative at Oji Fibre Solutions in New Zealand, has been awarded funding to study the Certificate in Packaging; while Ola Wicik, packaging engineer at Opal Fibre Packaging Australia, has been awarded funding to study the Diploma in Packaging Technology.
Both were announced at the gala Australasian Packaging Innovation & Design (PIDA) Awards ceremony, run by the AIP alongside foodpro on Tuesday 28 July 2026 at the Aviary, Crown Complex, Melbourne.
The scholarships cover the full cost of two internationally recognised packaging qualifications, delivered in Australasia by the AIP.
The Certificate in Packaging provides a grounding in packaging materials, functions, processes and supply chain – well suited to those moving into a packaging-focused role or broadening an adjacent one.
The Diploma in Packaging Technology is the more advanced qualification, covering packaging design, materials science, machinery, legislation, environmental considerations and packaging management – widely regarded as the benchmark technical qualification for the profession.
For many working in packaging, the cost of formal study is the thing that keeps it permanently on the to-do list. Removing that barrier is the point of the program – it gives two people each year the chance to formalise what they already do well, and to take that capability back into their organisations.
ABA CEO Martine Poulain said the scholarships are a practical way to lift capability across the sector.
“The shift to more sustainable packaging doesn’t happen through materials alone – it happens through people who understand how those materials behave, how they’re processed and how they’re managed at end of life,” said Poulain.
“Andrew and Ola are both thoroughly deserving, and what they learn will go straight back into their work. Giving two capable people a real opportunity each year is one of the most useful things we can do for the industry, and it’s a privilege to be part of it.”
Applications for the 2027 ABA Scholarships will open with the next round of PIDA Award entries through the AIP.
Packaging professionals at any career stage are encouraged to apply, and employers to put forward staff who would benefit from formal qualifications.
