Silk banner awards or gifts that Lu has received during his years of contribution to the people of Qinghe county hang on the wall of his home. He was named National Unity Model by the State Council in May, 2005. [Photo by Yexilik Burat for chinadaily.com.cn]

"Lu taught me the skills of electro welding", said Tasken. "The thing that impressed me most is that when I decided to start my own business in 2007, Lu not only did not stop me, but also assisted me in many aspects including introducing several business deals to me".

Now Tasken earns more than 60,000 yuan a year, a high income in Qinghe, a state-level poverty-stricken county. He has even bought a second-hand car.

"Lu changed my life," said Tasken, expressing gratitude to his master. "But for him, I may never command the skill of electro welding and may work myself to the bone at some construction site".

A Chinese proverb goes: "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime." The relationship between Lu and his apprentices built up in the workplace continues. They have become business partners, friends and, even, as he says, kinsfolk.

Among Lu's 73 apprentices, only five still work with him in his factory, with all others having set up their own business.

"I intend to teach 100 ethnic apprentices during my life. I want them to become entrepreneurs and make money", said Lu, adding that he is glad to see all his apprentices' lives improving.

"When seeing my Kazakh brothers, my heart is warm. I regard them as my kinsfolk", said Lu.

Yexilik Burat in Qinghe county contributed to this story.