The International Relations Department of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) is an essential academic institution in China. It is dedicated to teaching professionals and scholars the theoretical and practical aspects of International Relations. The question now arises, whether the International Relations Institute at the PLA is a Double First-Class University?

What is a Double First-Class University?

China's Double First-Class initiative is a massive effort by the Chinese government to achieve world-class academic status for specific universities and fields of study. This initiative has been launched to enhance China's educational system and promote the nation's scientific and technological development.

Criteria for a Double First-Class University

A Double First-Class University should have excellent characteristics across three dimensions: academic quality, innovative capability, and social impact. According to China's Ministry of Education, these universities should also have consistent performance and a high international reputation.

Is the International Relations Department of PLA a Double First-Class University?

In terms of the first criterion, it's important to note that the International Relations Department of PLA has its unique teaching curriculum with a particular focus on military strategy, military diplomacy, and military conflict resolution. Moreover, the faculty of the International Relations Department is composed of experienced military officers who have practical battlefield experience. This expertise enables them to offer a distinct curriculum and input into contemporary military conflicts.

Concerning the second criterion of innovation, the International Relations Department of PLA focuses on topics that mean to bring innovative suggestions on military-related diplomatic and international issues, including the Belt and Road Initiative, regional security systems and international security strategy. The plan of the Department is to emerge as the top research hub of military academic research on these topics that China has been seeking for quite a long time.

Last but not least, social impact is where the International Relations Department of PLA stands out notably. As a well-known academic institution, the Centre is directly associated with China's Ministry of National Defence, and its graduates hold significant positions in China's military, foreign affairs, and diplomacy departments. Thus, the institute's contribution to China's growth, particularly through its military graduates, is substantial.

Conclusion

Based on the criteria of the Double First-Class University Inspection initiative, it can be stated that the International Relations Department of PLA qualifies to be classified as a Double First-Class academic institution in China. The Department is a crucial force in the formation, shaping, and development of China's military diplomacy and has made significant contributions, particularly on issues related to regional and international security.