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by Elhaiza Gq Situmeang

UNPRI Students Study Traditional Chinese Pharmacology at Shandong Drug and Food Vocational College

UNPRI Student Exchange

Medan – After his departure on October 10, 2024, by the Chancellor of Universitas Prima Indonesia, Prof. Dr. Chrismis Novalinda Ginting, M.Kes, represented by Vice Rector III Dr. Said Rizal, SHI., MA, three students of the UNPRI Clinical Pharmacy Undergraduate Study Program intensively studied many things, including studying traditional Chinese pharmacology.

UNPRI's collaboration with Shandong Drug and Food Vocational College China is in the form of a 1+2+1 PROGRAM, where UNPRI students spend 1 year (Semester 1 and 2 at UNPRI), 2 years (Semester 3-6 in Shandong (study + practice + internship), then 1 year (Semester 7-8 at UNPRI).

The three UNPRI students who participated in the student exchange were Rizqa Mardhiah Averoes, Donna Sipayung and Angel Yoselin Tampubolon from the Clinical Pharmacy Undergraduate Study Program.

According to the Head of the UNPRI Clinical Pharmacy Undergraduate Study Program, apt. Razoki, S.Si., M.Kes., M.Biomed., M.H, the materials studied by UNPRI students in Shandong, China include Overview of China, Fundamental Chinese Medicine, Traditional Chinese Pharmacology, Physical Stamina Training, Tai Chi and Eight Section Brocade, TCM Diagnostics, Identification of Chinese Herb Outdoor, On-the-job Training, Practical Prescriptions and Chinese Patent Medicines, Authentication of Chinese Materia Medical, Science of Tuina, Introduction to Clinical TCM, Appropriate Techniques for TCM Health Preservation, TCM Medicated Diet. In addition, they can also learn local culture and Mandarin as part of the cultural exchange experience.

Then the Practice/Internship system, while in Shandong, UNPRI students usually undergo a practice system that is integrated with theoretical learning. They may do internships in laboratory facilities or companies that contribute to herbal medicine, acupuncture, reflexology (tui na) and others. This system allows students to gain hands-on experience and understand the production process, quality testing and operational management.

The three UNPRI students live in Shandong, precisely in campus dormitories or accommodation provided by the university. This gives them the opportunity to interact more closely with local students and experience daily life in Shandong. In terms of food, students can choose a menu according to their taste, and there is something available for Muslims, because there is a special stall for Muslim cuisine.

Asked about current obstacles, because it is still approximately three weeks, language barriers are often a challenge for international students. To overcome this, Mandarin classes are usually provided before departure and while in Shandong.

In addition, an orientation program regarding local culture is also held to facilitate adaptation. Students are also encouraged to communicate with local students and lecturers, to help them adapt to the new environment.