By Hala Khalaf (The National Newspaper,December 20. 2008 )
ABU DHABI // It is the only centre of its kind in the country, offering young men and boys a rare chance to turn their lives around. The campus in the desert outside Abu Dhabi does not look like much, but the staff at VEDC (Vocational Education Development Centre) in Al Shahama give hope for a job and a future to those who have nowhere else to go. (Picture: Students stage a play as part of the VEDC curriculum, which also emphasises interpersonal skills.)
Dr.Khodair Abid VEDC Principal
Join any of two vocational education pathways either Pre-apprenticeship or Apprenticeship pathway.................with amazing benefits.....
VEDC features a number of varied educational training facilities including fully equipped workshops that serve various technical education areas such as:
These are used in the fields of physics, electronics, digital electronics, electrical, hydraulics, refrigeration and conditioning, pneumatics and material.
This laboratory is equipped with a complete computer net that enables the trainees to perform engineering designs relates to their studies using the latest engineering software dedicated to CAD.
These labs accommodate net linked computer sets equipped with multimedia software dedicated to learning English language or computer aided learning. A major feature of these labs is enabling the trainees to use and receive information via multimedia such as educational films, documentaries, pictures courses and stored teaching programs. All trainees can avail from these labs throughout their learning at the centre.
VEDC has provided the trainees and the staff with educational system of the centre. Internet use is integrated within the program classes; however, trainees may also use Internet facilities at the Internet Café and the library during leisure time. VEDC is planning to provide more Internet access to the trainees and staff.
These are well equipped with various modern tools and equipment to cover different areas including fitting, turning, welding, machining, casting, motor vehicles, etc …
It is considered a site for creativity and talent where trainees are encouraged to practice different technical activities like making models, woodwork, electrical circuits, handicraft using various types of tools and equipments. This way, trainees are getting the opportunity to translate their ideas and thoughts into tangible products.
VEDC library is equipped with books, magazines, periodicals, reference books, maps, where trainees may enjoy reading and gaining much information and knowledge. It also accommodates other facilities, like Internet, photocopiers and printers. The trainees visit the library both in extra curricular activities and during their leisure time as well. A qualified team is always there to help trainees with their options and organize the daily routine of the library.
Educational Facilities 
VEDC features a number of varied educational training facilities including fully equipped workshops that serve various technical education areas such as:
VEDC library is equipped with books, magazines, periodicals, reference books, maps, where trainees may enjoy reading and gaining much information and knowledge. It also accommodates other facilities, like Internet, photocopiers and printers. The trainees visit the library both in extra curricular activities and during their leisure time as well. A qualified team is always there to help trainees with their options and organize the daily routine of the library.