Campus Digest

HKBU Endowed Chair Professor Bian Zhaoxiang shares insights on traditional Chinese Medicine at inaugural lecture

13 Mar 2018

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Professor Bian Zhaoxiang sheds light on the wisdoms and development of Chinese medicine
The guests of honour at the lecture: (from left) Mr Cheng Yan-kee, Professor Bian Zhaoxiang, Mr Patrick Tsang, Professor Roland Chin and Dean of the School of Chinese Medicine Professor Lyu Aiping

The University bestowed Endowed Chairs 2017 upon three prominent scholars at HKBU in recognition of their outstanding academic accomplishments. Professor Bian Zhaoxiang, Associate Vice-President (Chinese Medicine Development) of HKBU, who was awarded the title of Tsang Shiu Tim Endowed Chair of Chinese Medicine Clinical Studies, spoke on “Traditional Chinese Medicine: Science or Art?” at an inaugural lecture yesterday (12 March). 

The guests of honour who attended the lecture included the representative of Tsang Shiu Tim Charitable Foundation Mr Patrick Tsang Kai-chi, Chairman of the Council and the Court of HKBU Mr Cheng Yan-kee, and President and Vice-Chancellor Professor Roland Chin. 
    
Speaking at the lecture, Professor Bian elaborated on the global development of Chinese medicine to explain how Chinese medicine is becoming increasingly important around the world. Professor Bian said that the study of Chinese medicine is mainly based on its theory and practical experiences. It is a scientific study of how a person’s health condition reacts to the transformation pattern of a disease as well as its treatment process, medication, rehabilitative and healthcare measures. It is also an integration of science, humanities and art. He said he considers the core value of Chinese medicine clinical study is its safety and effectiveness while its development counts on its inheritance, research and innovation.

Professor Bian pointed out that Chinese medicine emphasises a holistic approach—a human being is connected with nature and the surroundings as a complete unity. He said that the soul of Chinese medicine is its principle of syndrome differentiation and explained the concept and importance of preventing a disease before it develops. Professor Bian expressed his hopes for the community to uphold a positive attitude towards the philosophical thinking and practical experiences of Chinese medicine and put greater focus on ways to further enhance its clinical efficacy as well as its rehabilitative and healthcare value so as to promote the development of Chinese medicine and its contribution to the world of medicine.

Professor Bian Zhaoxiang is Associate Vice-President (Chinese Medicine Development), Chair Professor and Director of the Clinical Division, School of Chinese Medicine of HKBU. He has played a seminal role in the development of research on Chinese medicine treatment of gastrointestinal (GI) diseases. His research team has been granted a US patent for the discovery of a natural compound “Pd-Ib” which could effectively alleviate acute ulcerative colitis. Professor Bian has 52 patents to his name. He has presented over 300 papers in journals, books and conferences, and received a host of national accolades including second prize in the National Science and Technology Advancement Award of China.

An Endowed Chair is among the highest honours to be bestowed upon prominent academics at HKBU in recognition of their accomplishments. The University launched the Endowed Chairs Scheme in 2006 with the aim of strengthening HKBU’s research capacity, extending the frontiers of knowledge and nurturing upcoming talents and leaders for society. The Scheme also provides opportunities for donors to partner with the University in advancing groundbreaking research and academic excellence in their chosen disciplines for the betterment of humankind.