The meeting in session
A 7-member delegation from the Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TUTCM) has paid a visit to the University of Ghana. The delegation, made up of Professors of Traditional Chinese Medicine were received by Prof. John Gyapong, Pro-Vice Chancellor in charge of the Office of Research, Innovation and Development (ORID).
The visit was held to advance the joint research programme on Research and Development of Medicinal Plants in Ghana between UG and TUTCM. The project is supported by the Chinese Ministry of Education and is being undertaken by the two institutions.
Welcoming the delegation, Prof. Gyapong noted that universities all over the world are learning to collaborate with one another due to the immense benefits derived from such collaborations. To this end, he said the University was committed to deepening the existing collaboration with the TUTCM.
A key issue during the discussions was the importance of the use of traditional medicines in Ghana. Prof. Gyapong informed the delegation of the challenges Ghana is currently facing with regards to introducing standardization for the use of herbal medicines. He stressed the need for traditional medicines to be standardized and approved in order to be beneficial. He noted that with the establishment of a School of Pharmacy at the University as well as the Mampong Centre for Research into Plant Medicine, there is still more that needs to be done to improve on the study of herbal medicines in the university. He said the University of Ghana was ready to take advantage of the knowledge base and expertise on herbal medicine from China considering that China has a proven record of proficiency in the area of traditional medicines, in addition to establishing a university solely for that purpose.
Prof. Gyapong also encouraged the team to explore other medicinal plant resources in Accra and the country at large.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the Professor and Dean at the International Education College, TUTCM, Mr. Ying Senlin thanked Prof. Gyapong for the reception. He explained that apart from the Institution’s focus on traditional medicines, it is also poised to develop the TUTCM into a reputable international status hence the need to engage with the world’s top universities such as the University of Ghana.
Prof. Nyarko, Acting Dean of the School of Pharmacy expressed satisfaction at the collaboration between the University and the TUTCM and was optimistic of building stronger ties in future.
During discussions with the delegation, Prof. Gyapong pointed out the need to reflect on the achievements and outcomes of the collaboration between the University of Ghana and the TUTCM. He said the assessment of the collaboration was relevant to monitor progress and pitfalls over the last 5 years. Going forward, he emphasized that it is essential to deal with lapses that had emerged during the period of collaboration and also map out strategies for improvement.
Prof. Gyapong presented copies of the UG Research Report to the delegation to update them on research conducted in the university. He also received a presentation from the delegation.
