On October 25, 2025, the School of International Studies at Nanjing University held the closing report session for the 2025 “Benfu Project” research program. Nine participants of the program reported on their research findings and learning insights, centering on the program's theme, “From Camouflage Green to Peacekeeping Blue: The Cultivation and Growth of Talents in International Peacekeeping and Military Diplomacy.” Assistant Professor Chang Na, Assistant Professor Li Tu, and Assistant Research Fellow Zhang Shiao from the School of International Studies served as evaluation panelists.
During the session, students delivered presentations on various topics, including “China's participation in regional security governance”, “the construction of China's peacekeeping image”, and “women's participation in UN peacekeeping operations”, etc. They integrated their learning and research from the program with IR themes such as global public security, construction of national image, feminism and securitization, which demonstrated in-depth observation and thoughtful reflection of young students on practical issues.
The three faculty reviewers commented on the participants' reports and presentations, offering feedback on topic selection, analytical frameworks, research methodologies and conclusions. While fully affirming the students' problem awareness and research innovation, the reviewers also provided targeted suggestions for revision and improvement. At the end of the session, they presented certificates of completion to the students who had successfully passed the defense.
As a significant initiative in the scientific and practical education at the School of International Studies, the “Benfu Project” research program aims to build a rich and diverse platform for disciplinary practice and exploration through specialized lectures, field visits and academic seminars. The program is designed to enhance students' research capabilities and academic literacy, in order to cultivate high-level, interdisciplinary talents with a sense of patriotism and a global perspective.
Appendix: Reflections from “Benfu Project” Participants
Zhao Jiaxin, Undergraduate, Grade 2023, School of International Studies:
Participating in the “Benfu Project” research program marked a crucial transition for me, moving from theoretical learning towards practical understanding in international relations. I gained a comprehensive understanding of China's participation in international peacekeeping and global security governance through listening to expert lectures, visiting the Peacekeeping Base at the National University of Defense Technology, watching documentaries of Chinese peacekeepers conducting rescue operations abroad and engaging with peer students from the National University of Defense Technology. I was not a passive observer of theories in classroom but became an active thinker, personally experiencing international governance practices and gaining a deep understanding of China's approaches and operational logic through role-playing and conflict investigation. This experience not only deepened my professional knowledge but also ignited my passion and determination to engage in international organizations and global governance in the future. It inspired me to move from the classroom to the world, transforming from a theoretical learner into an active participant and practitioner in global governance.
Liang Ziyi, Undergraduate, Grade 2024, School of International Studies:
I gained immensely from the “Benfu Project” research program. From systematically absorbing theoretical knowledge by attending a series of lectures to visiting the School of Foreign Studies and the peacekeeping training base at the National University of Defense Technology for direct, on-site experience of professional practice scenarios, my horizon was greatly broadened. My understanding of the field of international peacekeeping and military diplomacy shifted from the abstract to the concrete, and my professional competence was enhanced through the integration of theory and practice. The United Nations is the core force in maintaining international peace and security, and China, as a responsible major country, has always been a steadfast defender and active supporter of international peace. As a student majoring in International Relations, I am deeply aware of the responsibility of our generation. In the future, I will continue to delve deeply into knowledge related to peace and development and sharpen my skills. I hope to contribute the vigor and strength of our generation to promoting the cause of international peace.
(Text & Photos/Chen Zixin; Trans./Wei Yawen)
