Government is moving ahead with its commitment to partner with a publicly funded post-secondary institution to develop a school of traditional Chinese medicine.

The ministry has received submissions that will be reviewed following the closure of request for expressions of interest that was sent to all 25 publicly funded post-secondary institutions in British Columbia.

"A school of traditional Chinese medicine will benefit British Columbians by supporting our innovative health-care system with greater access to preventative and holistic health-care education," said Advanced Education Minister Amrik Virk. "As with all new schools and post-secondary training programs, a number of steps need to occur before any new school can open. This includes establishing a program advisory committee to guide the work."

"Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture are growing in popularity," said Teresa Wat, Minister of International Trade and Minister Responsible for Asia Pacific Strategy and Multiculturalism. "Having a school of traditional Chinese medicine located in a public post-secondary institution will further strengthen the reputation of British Columbia both at home and on the international platform."

A program advisory committee will be named shortly. The committee will include community representation. The committee will oversee the development and implementation of the new school and the value to British Columbians of traditional Chinese medicine.

Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture are designated health professions in British Columbia under the Health Professions Act and are regulated by the College of Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Acupuncturists of British Columbia.

The commitment to create an environment for a school of traditional Chinese medicine at a British Columbian publicly funded, post-secondary institution was included in the February 2013 speech from the throne.

Media contact:

Rodney Porter
Communications Director
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6508