IPMMI and KJ Somaiya Launch Industry-Backed Certification in Packaging Machinery Operations

In a significant step toward bridging the skills gap in India’s fast-evolving packaging industry, The Institute of Packaging Machinery Manufacturers of India (IPMMI)  has partnered with KJ Somaiya Private Industrial Training Institute (KJSPITI) to support a pioneering Certificate Course in Operation & Maintenance of Packaging Machinery. This initiative was supported by Thames Side Sensors India Pvt. Ltd. along with other IPMMI member companies.

Set to begin on 1st July 2025, this pioneering initiative blends hands-on training with industry-relevant expertise, aiming to prepare students for real-world careers in packaging operations and servicing. The course combines KJSPITI’s technical training infrastructure with IPMMI’s deep industry insights to offer a robust, future-ready curriculum.

Key highlights of the program include:

• Hands-on workshops with real-world packaging machines

• A syllabus co-developed by Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), domain experts, and KJSPITI faculty

• Strong pathways to internships and employment within the packaging industry

The formal signing ceremony was graced by Mr. Mahadevan Iyer, President, and Mr. Vivek Chinoy, Vice President of IPMMI, along with Mr. Shaji Mathews, Principal of KJSPITI. The agreement was signed in the esteemed presence of Mr. Samir Somaiya, Chancellor of Somaiya Vidyavihar University and President of Somaiya Vidyavihar.

A key contributor to the success of this initiative, Mr. Rakesh Valeja, a prominent member of IPMMI and the International Weighing Standard Promotion Council (WIWF India), volunteered his expertise to help shape the course curriculum and accelerate the launch process.

As part of its commitment to education and industry advancement, Thames Side Sensors also donated a custom-designed weighing instrument—a state-of-the-art device now installed in the newly developed training lab. This donation is expected to enhance practical learning outcomes and expose students to precision weighing technology, an essential component of modern packaging systems.

This collaboration reflects a growing focus on industry-academia partnerships to upskill India's youth in emerging manufacturing technologies, aligning with national goals like Skill India and Make in India.

About the Organizations:

• IPMMI (Institute of Packaging Machinery Manufacturers of India) is the apex body representing the packaging machinery sector, promoting growth through knowledge sharing and policy advocacy.

• KJSPITI (KJ Somaiya Private Industrial Training Institute) is known for its high-impact vocational education programs aimed at creating employment-ready professionals.

• Thames Side Sensors India Pvt. Ltd. is a leading name in the field of precision weighing and load cell technology, with a strong commitment to supporting technical education and innovation.