Chinese medicine institute opens at London South Bank University

London South Bank University this week announced the opening of its Confucius Institute of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

The institute, one of 200 worldwide designed to promote Chinese culture, is the first to offer traditional Chinese medicinal courses, including a degree in acupuncture.

"London South Bank University is very excited and very proud to launch the first Confucius Institute in traditional Chinese medicine, not only in the UK but in the world," says vice-chancellor Prof Deian Hopkin.

"We thank our partners for their support as we establish this important milestone in the history between our countries."

The institute is Jointly funded by London South Bank and the Office of Chinese Language Council International, Harbin Normal University and Heilongjiang University of Chinese Medicine.

Confucius Institute students will be encouraged to learn Mandarin as part of their coursework and will be given the opportunity through the Confucius Institute to study in China during the summer or in their final year.

There will also be short courses open to all London South Bank University students that promote all aspects of Chinese culture, including food, film, dancing and Tai Chi.

Guests at the launch event included Simon Hughes MP and the Mayor of Southwark, Cllr Bob Skelly.