Abu Dhabi: A graduation ceremony was held for 182 students from Abu Dhabi, who completed a one-year Foundation Year Programme. Around 545 students from Abu Dhabi took part in the programme.

The programme was developed by Abu Dhabi Education Council (ADEC) for students who completed their secondary school but had not been offered a place at university or college.

Mohammad Salem Al Dhaheri, the Director of Abu Dhabi Educational Zone (ADEZ), and Dr Robert Thompson, Head of Special Projects Department at ADEC, parents and family members of the graduates and members of the Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) attended the graduation ceremony.

"This programme reflects the vision of our wise leadership to improve learning and prepare our youth to meet future challenges and join the market. It also provides the students with second opportunity to join higher education institutions and improve their skills," said Al Dhaheri, who also conveyed his best wishes to the new Director of ADEC, Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili.

He said ADEC, ADEZ and CFBT have worked together to ensure the success of this programme, praised the students' success and requested them to seize the opportunity to reach higher achievements for themselves, their families and their precious country.