Studying in Jilin, an African medical student thrives

A young medical intern from Nigeria received warm welcome recently at Jilin Provincial People's Hospital in Changchun, Jilin province. His careful treatment of patients won their gratitude.

Onodu Onyebuchi Emmanuel, 25, began his studies at Changchun University of Chinese Medicine in 2016.

"I have been interested in Chinese culture since my childhood," he said, adding that China and Nigeria have good cooperative relations, and many daily necessities and clothing in the African country come from China.

"I also heard about traditional Chinese medicine before I arrived," he said. "So I decided to go to China after graduating from high school."

With a strong interest in TCM, Onodu often seeks advice from teachers and classmates on acupuncture and massage.

"During the process, I have improved my proficiency in the Chinese language," he said. "I hope to have the opportunity to make a systematic study of it."

In 2022, Onodu began his postgraduate studies at the university, and under the guidance of his mentor, he can now provide TCM advice to patients.

"Some patients experienced bloating after surgery and had difficulty excreting for a long time," he said. "We suggested acupuncture and they quickly found relief."

He hopes cooperation between China and Nigeria continues to deepen.

"I hope people in my country can benefit more from traditional Chinese medicine," he said. "When I return to my country, I will do my best to promote the popularization of TCM in Africa."

The university, which was established in 1958, has recently become a center for education, research, medical care and cultural exchanges in Jilin — particularly with TCM. This year, the university has admitted more than a dozen students from Africa.

"We hope the African students will bring back to their countries what they have learned and experienced in China," said Yan Qi, a teacher at the university's International Education School. "We hope they will promote exchanges and cooperation between the two sides and share their Chinese stories."

Han Junhong contributed to this story.