JCC launches new grid

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Jazeera Children’s Channel (JCC) has launched an array of premieres on the occasion of the new academic year and the channel’s 5th anniversary.
“The new grid reflects its maturing programming strategy and features many in-house productions along with international co-productions and acquisitions,” a spokesman said.
“The new programmes that include Saladin (a new 3D-animated series), a cookery show, a unique science programme, a debate programme, a sports magazine, and a first time quiz show will capture the hearts and minds of children and youth across the Arab world.”
On September 17, children across the Arab world watched the premiere of the long-awaited adventure series Saladin.
Saladin takes Arab children and their families on an epic full of adventure and humour. Over the past three years, JCC and Malaysia’s Multimedia Development Company (MDEC) have successfully worked together to bring to life this series inspired by the long history of heroism in the Arab region. The series is available in both English and Arabic and has thus generated considerable interest from the international market and content buyers from Russia, Turkey, Indonesia, China, America and several European countries.
JCC has also dedicated a slot to encourage healthy eating habits. Over the past two years, JCC has been collaborating with Fresh One, a British production company made famous by Jamie Oliver to produce a cooking show that promotes and emphasises on the importance of a healthy and balanced diet.
JCC’s Al Tabaq Al Taer (Flying Saucer) is an entertaining “easy to digest” 26-minute series offering fresh and simple recipes and nutrition tips for children.
JCC’s new grid will also mark the launch of PhysiaKawn (Discover Science), a major co-production between JCC and Japan’s Broadcasting Corporation NHK/NED. Beginning February 2011, PhysiaKawn will make physics visually fun through some easy-to-understand spectacular experiments.
JCC’s in-house productions include Anta Batal (Be a Champion), a weekly sports magazine, hosted by a fun sports enthusiast. Khair Al Kalam, a weekly debate show with teams debating the hottest topics affecting teens nowadays; and, Al Alam Soual a quiz show in which contestants answer general knowledge questions about different countries of the world.
JCC’s executive general manager, Mahmoud Bouneb said: “Today, we proudly celebrate JCC’s 5th anniversary and the launch of our new grid showcasing some remarkable content. Over the past years, JCC has not only matured but also learnt how to innovate on many levels; this growth has allowed us to take a leading role in the field of children’s media and in making a major impact internationally.”
“As a non-profit organisation, our goal is not only to sell to the international market but primarily to produce and acquire quality programming suitable for Arab children”, Bouneb added.