Now, let's continue with our special series on poverty alleviation in Xinjiang. A lack of adequate job opportunities has been one of the main obstacles, for many families in overcoming poverty. In recent years, with the efforts of local governments, more and more young people have gone inland for jobs. Our reporter Yang Jinghao went to Makit County on the edge of the Taklamakan Desert to find out how this initiative is benefiting people.

Amina Turgun can't wait to decorate her home, now that she's back. It's the first time she has lived in this new house since she departed to work in East China's Jingsu Province in 2017. The whole family was excited and moved to tears to see each other.

AMINA TURGUN Farmer, Makit County "I was stunned by all the changes when I arrived last night. I almost couldn't recognize my home."

Amina's family is in Makit in southern Xinjiang, a county just on the edge of China's largest desert – Taklamakan. It is one of the poorest areas in China.

To help her family out of poverty, Amina decided to venture out, following a government-initiated labor transfer program.

She earned about 4,500 yuan, or some 635 US dollars each month at an optical instrument company. That almost equals the family's previous income for an entire year.

With her encouragement, her two younger brothers followed in her footsteps seeking better opportunities.

TURGUN ROZI Amina Turgun's Father "My children often ask us to stop doing farm work, as they are capable of supporting us now. I'm so happy to see their enormous changes both materially and spiritually."

YANG JINGHAO Makit County, Xinjiang "The labor transfer program has proven an effective way to help many families get out of poverty. Local authorities say the willingness of young people to go to inland cities for employment has been growing over the past few years."

A chilly morning in April, more than 100 people are at a training session before leaving for different cities.

This young woman is eager to start her second journey away from her hometown. She once worked in an electronics factory in Anhui Province for three years.

PAXSHAGUL TURSUN Farmer of Makit County "I loved my life there and the working atmosphere. My colleagues were also very friendly. I miss that time."

Local human resources authorities say more than 1,800 people have been transferred to inland cities for employment in the first four months of this year.

WANG XINHONG Director, Employment Service Center of Makit County "The number of people who want to go is far more than this."

Amina divorced several years ago. During this break at home, she has some big plans.

AMINA TURGUN Farmer of Makit County "I will marry my boyfriend first, then we may go back to inland cities again to do some businesses."

Amina says the value of working outside is not just monetary. The experience has also opened her eyes and has given her more confidence to pursue a better life. YJH, CGTN, Makit County, Xinjiang.