'Straw Hat University' keeps founder busy

He expanded the planting area the next year and became known as the watermelon king.

After the success, he continued to research drought-resistant technology and obtained a number of technical patents.

His achievements have won him many honors, including the China Youth May 4th Medal and being named one of the 10 Outstanding Young Farmers in China.

In 1997, he was elected as a delegate to the 15th National Congress of the Communist Party of China.

"It was plastic film that saved my life and made me believe in the power of technology," Liu said.

"Since then, I have spent all my energy on the study of agricultural development in arid areas, hoping to change the history of relying on the weather."

He said the key point is mastering local precipitation patterns and crops' water consumption.

"The plastic film helps collect and retain rain, which is quite useful during the dry season," he said.

His technology is now widely used and Liu has been busy providing technical guidance around the country.

"Many of my technology patents have been widely promoted in Gansu (province) and Ningxia (Hui autonomous region)," he said.

"In fact, it is also a good opportunity for me to increase experience and enrich research results."

Over the past three months, the WeChat group has become another important tool for Liu to pass on his techniques, from selecting seeds and plastic films to preventing insect-borne diseases.

The group has also become a platform where members can find and offer help when necessary, such as donating money to poverty-stricken families and helping elderly farmers carry and sell watermelons.

The farmers have also joined in different public welfare activities, sending their watermelons to sanitation workers and lonely elderly people during the scorching summer months.

Moved by Liu's dedication, Yuan Kangping, a professor at Zhejiang University, volunteered to be a teacher for Straw Hat University.

Whenever he has spare time, Yuan gives instruction on agricultural techniques and answers questions from the group.

"I feel quite happy to see the great cohesion in the group," he said. "Moreover, it is a great encouragement for me to see the group has gained wide public recognition."