Lamps of Hope Along the Frontier Road

Young teacher Wu Huai feels out of place after returning to his hometown. He is also disgusted by his relatives fighting over property. Longing to make something of himself, he finally sets off for Xinjiang, full of enthusiasm, to work as a teacher supporting the region.

He had thought he would make his mark in the city, but instead finds himself assigned to a township teaching station in the outskirts of Karamay.

Conditions are harsh, there are few students, and the children face difficult circumstances. Wu Huai had complained about his surroundings, but as he gets to know his student Aishan, he discovers the boy has a talent for long-distance running. Wu Huai decides to help him find a way out of the frontier, and to secure funding to expand the school.

At this tiny teaching station, he devotes every ounce of his energy to education, keeping a lamp burning bright for the cause.

Along the way, he and fellow teacher Zuli quietly fall in love. In the end, Wu Huai stays in Karamay, where he and Zuli work together to build up education in the township.