AIFPP, BIGC forge strategic partnership in printing and packaging education

In a move to enhance international cooperation, the All India Federation of Printers and Packagers (AIFPP) recently held discussions with the Beijing Institute of Graphic Communication (BIGC) to explore a strategic partnership in the fields of printing, packaging, and publishing education. The meeting, held at BIGC in Beijing, aimed at fostering stronger academic and industrial ties between India and China.  

AIFPP is a recently established federation with Ashwani Gupta serves as president, as well as president of Northern region. According to Prof Kamal Chopra, chief strategist for international affairs of the AIFPP, 15 prominent associations are already affiliated under the umbrella of the Federation. “There are plans to expand to over 68 affiliated associations by the end of September this year,” Prof Chopra said.

The discussions with BIGC, were led by Prof Chopra, representing AIFPP, alongside key officials from BIGC, including Liu Jiemin, deputy secretary of the party committee; Zhang Zhicheng, director of the Foreign Affairs Office; Qi Yuansheng, dean of the School of Printing & Packaging Engineering; and Wang Ying, vice director of the Foreign Affairs Office. The collaboration aims to create a global ecosystem that promotes innovation, education, and industry growth in the printing and packaging sectors.  

A key focus of the partnership is the expansion of student and faculty exchanges between the two countries, facilitating cross-cultural learning and collaboration. Additionally, AIFPP will send Indian printing industry professionals and educators to BIGC for specialised training programs, enhancing skills and knowledge transfer. Plans were also discussed to establish a joint research and development centre in India, in collaboration with BIGC, to drive innovation and technological advancements in the industry.  

BIGC announced its initiative to establish an International Alliance for Publishing Education by June 2025, inviting Indian universities, enterprises, and associations to participate. This global network aims to create a platform for cooperation in publishing education, fostering innovation and excellence. Furthermore, both institutions will jointly organise international academic activities, including competitions such as the Print Olympiad, encouraging participation from Indian and Chinese students and teachers.  

Liu Jiemin expressed her enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, "The establishment of the publishing education international alliance will create a platform for global cooperation, and we warmly invite Indian institutions to join us in this endeavour. Together, we can shape the future of printing and packaging education."  

Prof Chopra highlighted the significance of the partnership, saying, "This collaboration between AIFPP and BIGC marks a milestone in the printing and packaging industry. By leveraging our collective strengths, we can nurture global talent, drive innovation, and set new standards of excellence in academia and industry."