BAGHDAD — Doha-based Al-Jazeera, known for its often heated coverage of Middle Eastern politics and conflicts, has launched the first pan-Arabic channel for preschool children.
Baraem, which means “buds” in Arabic, began airing on Jan. 16 with a mix of programming that aims to strengthen the cognitive and developmental skills of children age 3 to 6.
Channel follows the launch 3½ years ago of Al-Jazeera Children, aimed at tykes up to 13 years old.
According to Al-Jazeera executive general manager Mahmoud Bouneb, Baraem frees up space on Al-Jazeera Children for programming that will be more appealing for 7-to-13 year olds.
“Baraem comes as a historical development and unprecedented contribution to the television history of the Arab world,” said Bouneb in a statement.
It is designed, he added, to “achieve a conscientious media environment for the Arab youth and child, protecting our young viewers from improper content undermining the established moral, family and social ethics.”
Baraem broadcasts 17 hours a day, free-to-air on the Arabsat, Nilesat and Hotbird satellites. Its content is 15% self-produced and 85% acquired internationally.
The web is owned by the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science and Community Development, created by Sheikha Mozah Bint Nasser al-Masnad, the wife of Qatar’s Emir.
