Propaganda Department Honors Defense Software Pioneer Wang Ji as 'Role Model of the Times'

China's Publicity Department has officially awarded National University of Defense Technology (NUDT) researcher Wang Ji the national title 'Role Model of the Times,' state news agency Xinhua reported on July 29. Wang, a doctoral supervisor specializing in computer science, was recognized for leading the development of theoretical frameworks and technical systems for high-trust military software. Despite enduring severe illness and high-level amputation, Wang continued his defense research, contributing to software reliability across major weapon systems and military modernization targets.

The public recognition of a high-trust military software pioneer reflects Beijing's strategic effort to elevate defense technology self-reliance and build ideological momentum behind military modernization targets.

The Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee has conferred the title "Role Model of the Times" upon Wang Ji, a senior computer science researcher at the National University of Defense Technology (NUDT), according to a report published by Xinhua. Wang, born in November 1969 in Shanghai, is a doctoral supervisor who has spent his career at the forefront of military education and scientific research, state media detailed. He led a research team to construct a comprehensive theoretical framework and technical architecture for high-trust software. These innovations have provided key safeguards for the safety and reliability of software deployed across major military equipment platforms. The official commendation highlighted Wang's resilience following a life-altering medical crisis. Despite suffering a severe illness that resulted in high-level limb amputation, Wang maintained his research responsibilities and continued to produce software breakthroughs, several of which reached internationally advanced benchmarks, according to the official report. In addition to his technological achievements, Wang was recognized for training a key cohort of technical specialists in high-trust software systems. His family was previously named a National Civilized Family in recognition of their modest lifestyle and traditional values. During the award ceremony held in Beijing, officials read the formal decision by the Publicity Department and presented Wang with the official "Role Model of the Times" medal and certificate. A promotional documentary showcasing his achievements was also broadcast during the event. Representatives from the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the State Administration of Science, Technology and Industry for National Defense (SASTIND), the Central Military Commission Political Work Department, NUDT, and the Hunan Provincial CPC Committee attended the ceremony alongside military personnel and student representatives. The official decision urged Party cadres, government officials, and military personnel to emulate Wang's dedication to defense innovation and political alignment under the leadership of the Central Committee. State reports stressed that strengthening technological self-reliance in critical defense areas remains essential to achieving the military's centenary goal and transforming the People's Liberation Army into a world-class armed force.