DeCoDe-KNUST Tops All at the 5th National Packaging Research and Innoivation Challenge Awards 2023

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The annual 5th National Packaging Research and Innovation Challenge, was held at the Grand Arena of the Accra International Conference Center and organized by the Institute of Packaging Ghana (IOP-G), with support from sponsors such as Royal Crown Packaging Limited (RCPL), Access Bank, Kasapreko Company Ltd, Brand Innovation, Qualiplast Ltd, Fair Trade, EPAC, and Premaxks Communications. This event aimed to promote innovation and sustainability in the packaging industry. The challenge aims at fostering innovation and sustainability in the Ghanaian packaging industry by providing a platform for university students to showcase their creative ideas.

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) secured 140.5 points with their Agushie Pouch. 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.

The KNUST team comprising Edna Akyaa Amo-Duah (BA Communication Design), Barthelomew Nyarko (BA Communication Design), and Maxine Naa Adoley Allotey-Quist (BSc Packaging Technology) emerged victorious, claiming the top prize with its Alpha Biopack packaging, which impressed the jury with its innovative design and commercial potential. Their outstanding performance, earning them a total of 212 points, reflected their dedication and hard work throughout the challenge.

In addition to the overall prizes, the KNUST team received special recognition with the Save Food Award for their Alpha Biopack packaging, addressing the critical issue of food waste. Each category win came with a cash prize, further highlighting the team’s remarkable achievements. The accomplishments of the KNUST team have been widely recognized, with sponsors and organizers expressing satisfaction with the level of creativity and innovation displayed. These successes not only showcase the talent within KNUST but also set a high standard for future packaging innovations.

Article by Adam Rahman