The 5th Packaging Research and Innovation Challenge concluded on a high note at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Center, marking the culmination of months of hard work, dedication, and sacrifices from all participants. The challenge, organized by the Institute of Packaging Ghana (IOP-G), a member of the World Packaging Organization(WPO), and supported by Royal Crown Packaging Limited (RCPL), aimed to foster innovation and sustainability in the packaging industry by providing a platform for students to showcase their creative ideas.

The final presentation to the jury was a testament to the exceptional talent and commitment of the participating students. Each team presented their innovative packaging solutions, demonstrating their ability to address real-world challenges in the packaging industry.

The University for Development Studies (UDS), a first-time participant, impressed the jury with their Loofah-based packaging solution, earning them 128 points. Koforidua Technical University (KTU) followed closely behind with their Agushie Pouch, securing 140.5 points. Ho Technical University (HTU) secured third place with their Kente packaging, showcasing their creativity and design expertise. The University of Ghana’s Luminab packaging, a sustainable and functional solution, earned them the second-place position with 176 points.

Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST) emerged victorious, claiming the top prize with their Alpha Biopack packaging, which impressed the jury with its innovative design and potential for commercialization. Their exceptional performance, earning them a total of 212 points, was a testament to their dedication and hard work throughout the challenge.
The sponsors of the challenge, including Access Bank, Kasapreko Company Ltd, Brand Innovation, Qualiplast Ltd, Fair Trade, EPAC, and Premaxks Communications, expressed their utmost satisfaction with the level of innovation and creativity showcased by the students. They were particularly impressed by the students’ ability to address real-world challenges in the packaging industry while incorporating sustainability principles into their designs.

The award ceremony recognized the outstanding achievements of the participating teams. KNUST, as the first-place winners, received cash prizes each, certificates, products from Kasapreko Company Ltd, souvenirs from Access Bank, and an internship opportunity. The University of Ghana, as second-place winners, received cash prizes each, certificates, products from Kasapreko Company Ltd, souvenirs from Access Bank, and an internship opportunity. Ho Technical University, as third-place winners, received cash prizes each, certificates, products from Kasapreko Company Ltd, souvenirs from Access Bank, and an internship opportunity. Koforidua Technical University and UDS, as fourth and fifth-place teams, respectively, received certificates, products from Kasapreko Company Ltd, souvenirs from Access Bank, and an internship opportunity.

In addition to the overall prizes, three special awards were presented to recognize outstanding achievements in specific areas. The Market Appeal Award went to Ho Technical University for their Kente packaging, which demonstrated a strong understanding of consumer preferences and market trends. The Sustainability Award was awarded to UDS for their Loofah-based packaging, which showcased their commitment to environmentally friendly solutions. The Save Food Award went to KNUST for their Alpha Biopack packaging, which addressed the critical issue of food waste. All three categories came with a cash prize each.

Our gratitude goes to the jury for putting up a good show dipping into the decades of experience in the industry. We acknowledge Mr. Kofi Essuman ( Vice Pres A.P.O), Thomas Kwesi Abaidoo(Pres IOPG), Caroline Tsikata ( 2nd Vice IOPG), Rev Prince Agyenim Boateng ( Exec member IOPG), Md Suzanne Mouelle (Dep Sec A.P.E.C.I), Sally Osei- Boateng( GM HR & Corporate Communications ), Akosua Febri Yeboah( Quality Assurance Manager), Evans Gyamfi (Hd Q.A Qualiplast)

Special thanks to all our sponsors: IOPG, Fairtrade, Brand Innovation, Access Bank, Qualiplast, Premaxks Communications, Royal Crown Packaging Limited (RCPL), Kasapreko Company Limited, EPAC and D’Bloom Consult.

The 5th Packaging Research and Innovation Challenge has successfully concluded, leaving an indelible mark on the packaging industry in Ghana. The challenge has not only nurtured young talent but has also stimulated innovation and encouraged the adoption of sustainable practices in the packaging sector. The organizers and sponsors are incredibly proud of the achievements of all participating teams and look forward to witnessing their continued contributions to the industry.

See you at the next edition.