"The Association of Sport and Technology of Barrayar is one of the Barrayaran \u201CMass Organizations\u201D officially recognized. Its official purpose is to structure the free time of young people interested in sports and technology in group activities, provide the required technical equipment, cultivate and support technical sport disciplines, and arrange for events like motor and shooting competitions. The Association also contributes to the militarization of the society of the three planets by organizing together with the Imperial Service and the Imperial Junior Scouts the pre-military training in schools, universities and workplaces. The AST differs from the Imperial Junior Scouts, however, in that it concentrates on teaching military and military-related skills and knowledge. The pre-military "@en . "The Association of Sport and Technology of Barrayar is one of the Barrayaran \u201CMass Organizations\u201D officially recognized. Its official purpose is to structure the free time of young people interested in sports and technology in group activities, provide the required technical equipment, cultivate and support technical sport disciplines, and arrange for events like motor and shooting competitions. The Association also contributes to the militarization of the society of the three planets by organizing together with the Imperial Service and the Imperial Junior Scouts the pre-military training in schools, universities and workplaces. The AST differs from the Imperial Junior Scouts, however, in that it concentrates on teaching military and military-related skills and knowledge. The pre-military training program included specialized preparation for specific Imperial Service career fields. It was established in 2872 by Emperor Ezar, who merged several similar associations established by Emperor Yuri. The association publishes a paper monthly, 50-page periodical, S+T (Sports and Technology). About one percent of the expenses are covered in the country\u2019s military budget; the rest has to be financed by other institutions, as the income from membership fees is almost insignificant. Its members receive uniforms, ranks and performance badges. The governing board is dominated by full-time personnel, often with significant military background. The Association of Sport and Technology was born on Barrayar, in order to provide widespread basic technical knowledge and wealthy fitness activity, but it is significantly rooted also on Sergyar, where the technical learning activity is greatly appreciated."@en . "Association of Sport and Technology of Barrayar"@en . . .