The central government has continuously adjusted the curriculum of the class to ensure it stays in line with the latest developments in Tibet. And the quality of his students is getting better all the time, he said.

"In the past, we had to include lots of literacy classes because many of the trainees were barely able to read or write. There was no decent education in Tibet before the late 70s.

"And now, our students generally hold college degrees and the class can focus on the theoretical and policy study," Chen sid.

Teachers at the Tibet Cadre Class need not only knowledge but also passion and affection for the Tibetan people, Chen said.

"We arranged for our teachers to visit Tibet if possible and make sure they are well informed about the region.

Students also visit other provinces to find out how things are done in different parts of the country to broaden their vision and get acquainted with the latest social and economic developments.

Thirty-six graduates of the class have gone on to become leaders in the regional government, while 600 have become leaders at the prefecture and city level, Chen said.

As well as the training provided by the two top institutes, other provinces have provided opportunities for Tibetan cadres to exchange views and develop their leadership skills.

For example, Yangzom, the vice-head of Motuo county - the only county in the country that is still not accessible by road - worked as assistant to a district head in Zhongshan, Guangdong province.

Her six-month work experience has given her inspiration on how to promote tourism in her county, she said.

Since 2001, more than 500 Tibetan cadres have been sent to work in affluent regions, the regional organization bureau said.

"The exchanges have broadened their vision and helped them learn the skills necessary for development," Chen said.

(China Daily, Xinhua News Agency April 17, 2008)