The Luban Workshop in Mali held an open day on July 19, with notable attendees including Mali's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Bouréma Kansaye and Chinese Ambassador Chen Zhihong.

Diarra Boubacar (dressed in yellow), the first foreigner to obtain a doctorate degree in TCM, introduces the Mali Luban Workshop to the attendees during an open day on July 19. [Photo provided to tianjin.chinadaily.com]

The event attracted nearly 100 participants, including experts from Mali's academic and medical sectors. Diarra Boubacar, the first foreigner to obtain a doctorate degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine, introduced the workshop to the attendees.

In his address, Chen underscored the workshop's pivotal role in fusing Chinese and Malian traditional medicine, highlighting its contributions to the health and wellbeing of the Malian people. He also noted the workshop's success in training local medical professionals and reaffirmed China's commitment to deepening its collaboration with Mali.

Mali's Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Bouréma Kansaye (left) during the open day at the Mali Luban Workshop on July 19 [Photo provided to tianjin.chinadaily.com]

During his visit, Kansaye toured the workshop and gained firsthand knowledge of Chinese medical diagnostic and treatment equipment. He praised the ongoing partnership between Mali and China, emphasizing its impact on advancing health and education in the country.

Attendees at the Mali Luban Workshop's open day on July 19 [Photo provided to tianjin.chinadaily.com]

Launched in December 2019 in Bamako, the capital and largest city of Mali, the Mali Luban Workshop is a collaborative effort between Tianjin Medical College, Tianjin Red Star Vocational School, Bamako University of Science and Technology, and the University of Arts and Humanities of Bamako. It offers comprehensive education, training and research opportunities, in partnership with schools, hospitals and enterprises.

The initiative provides Malian students and professionals with valuable insights into Chinese vocational medical education, while also enhancing healthcare services for the broader community. The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of China and Mali to fostering mutual growth and development.