UG and Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Build Stronger Collaboration in Traditional Medicine Practice

The University of Ghana recently welcomed a delegation from Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TUTCM) led by Vice-President Qiu Feng. This visit marked a significant milestone in the on-going collaboration between the two institutions, aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of herbal practitioners and students in Ghana.  

During the visit, the delegation met with key officials, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, to discuss potential areas of collaboration.  

These discussions emphasised the importance of broadening partnerships and recognising the advancements made in traditional medicine by countries such as China.  

Vice-President Qiu Feng expressed TUTCM's desire to expand and deepen their corporation with the University of Ghana, exploring opportunities for mutual benefit in various fields, including climate change and its impact on health.  

Vice-Chancellor Professor Amfo highlighted the strategic significance of such collaborations, underscoring the University's commitment to engagement and partnerships as part of priorities in UG’s new Strategic Plan.  

The discussions also touched on the potential for a country-by-country collaboration framework that could extend to Central Africa, subject to approval from the Chinese Ministry of Education. This vision aims to create a more interconnected and enlightened world through shared knowledge and expertise.  

Later during the visit, the School of Pharmacy at the University of Ghana, in collaboration with TUTCM, held a comprehensive training programme for level 500 students and herbal practitioners. This initiative is part of the broader 20+20 Sino-African Universities collaboration, designed to introduce Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) to Ghana through practical training sessions.  

Professor Isaac Asiedu-Gyekye, Dean of the School of Pharmacy, underscored the importance of the collaboration in improving the quality of herbal preparations used by the Ghanaian population. He noted that the partnership with TUTCM would allow Ghanaian students and practitioners to tap into China's extensive experience in traditional medicine, facilitating a meaningful exchange of knowledge and skills.  

Vice-President Qiu Feng highlighted TUTCM's leading role in the research of traditional Chinese medicine and medicinal plants. He reiterated the importance of approaching the training with utmost seriousness, acknowledging that the information and skills acquired would have a direct impact on enhancing healthcare outcomes and contributing to the well-being of the Ghanaian community. 

Professor Joseph Adusei Sarkodie, from the School of Pharmacy, stressed the programme's success and the positive feedback received from participants, highlighting its focus on quality assessment and proper dosing of herbal drugs.  

The training was hosted for the first time by Chinese facilitators in Ghana.  

The event concluded with a gift presentation, symbolising goodwill between the collaborating parties.