Vocational training centers aim to promote better lifestyles

On Oct 23, Nabi Abudurext returned to his job as a driver at a telecommunications company in Kashgar city, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. He had recently graduated from the city's vocational education and training center that was established to help people to avoid religious extremism and lead better lives.

"I received my graduation certificate on Oct 10 after passing exams on the county's common language, legal knowledge and vocational skills. Because my skills have improved, my manager has promised to promote me. Soon, I will be head of the group of drivers who drive the maintenance vehicles," the 31-year-old said, sitting at home with his wife and children in Qianjin village, Naizierbage township, Kashgar.

Last year, the family's life changed dramatically after Nabi Abudurext became influenced by religious extremists. "I wouldn't allow my wife to go to work. I was told that it was prohibited to spend money earned by a woman, and I should not call myself Chinese," he said. "I didn't know the extremists' real intentions."