2026 ABA Scholarships open the door for two packaging professionals
Two packaging professionals have been awarded fully funded places in the Australasian Institute of Packaging’s (AIP) formal packaging qualification programs, through the 2026 ABA Scholarships — an AIP program sponsored by the Australasian Bioplastics Association (ABA).
Andrew Rennie AAIP, Sales Representative at Oji Fibre Solutions in New Zealand, has been awarded a scholarship for the Certificate in Packaging. Ola Wicik AAIP, Packaging Engineer at Opal Fibre Packaging Australia, has been awarded a scholarship for 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 winners receive scholarships to cover the full cost of these 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 — suitable for 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.
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,” Poulain said.
“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.
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