Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

Taipei, June 21 (CNA) President Chen Shui-bian on Saturday exhorted the first group of graduates from the Ketagalan Institute, an academy run by the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) , to work for the well-being of the people of Taiwan.

Addressing a commencement ceremony for the 38 Ketagalan graduates, Chen said the academy is aimed at nurturing a new generation of politically adept professionals for public service. "The establishment of the school is part of our commitment to deepening Taiwan's democratic reforms, " Chen said, adding that the academy is not designed to train politicians to serve any specific political party. "The people of Taiwan are the ultimate target of our service," he stressed.

The president also encouraged all graduates to take up life's challenges with courage, wisdom and confidence while pursuing excellence in their careers.

The Ketagalan Institute, the brainchild of President Chen, who doubles as DPP chairman, was inaugurated in April. After three months of study in national leadership and development strategies, the first group of Ketagalan students graduated.