In a remarkable effort to address educational disparities, retired teachers from China’s eastern regions have been actively contributing to the revitalization of higher education in the less-developed western areas. Since the late 1990s, these seasoned educators have been making the arduous journey to impart their knowledge and expertise. Among them is Professor Ju Chunhua, a retired faculty member from the Harbin Institute of Technology (HIT), who has dedicated the past three years to teaching at Kashi University in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Ju, who has over three decades of teaching experience, felt a strong sense of duty to support the educational development in the western regions. Despite the challenging living conditions, including a harsh climate and disrupted routines, Ju remained steadfast in her commitment. She introduced innovative teaching methods, incorporating artificial intelligence to make complex subjects more engaging for students. Ju’s efforts have not only enhanced the academic rigor at Kashi University but also inspired a new generation of educators. Her story is part of a broader initiative by HIT, which has sent numerous retired teachers to support universities in western China, significantly contributing to their academic and professional development.