In May 2017, Ren Chuan'gui, a Chinese teacher from Pingtang Ethnic Middle School, co-founded the school's astronomy association with a colleague, because of the FAST project.

"It is necessary to promote astronomy knowledge among our students. We feel the responsibility to do so," he says.

About 50 students were chosen among over 600 applicants that year. The number was limited because they only had basic equipment then. Now, the students can join two astronomy classes a week, both theory and practice, which are also open for non-association members. They learn about how to install and dismantle an astronomical telescope and join camping activities to observe stars in and around the area.