In 2006 and 2007, the Global Alliance teamed up with Sesame Workshop, the US not-for-profit organization behind Sesame Street, to produce a Palestinian version of the renowned children’s television series. 

Following the success of this project, the Alliance renewed its partnership with the Organization in 2008 to develop a programme for children throughout the Arab States using Sesame Street international content. The new show will combine segments from Egypt and six additional countries including Jordan, Morocco, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Yemen.

As such, Sesame Workshop will create programming that will provide access to a range of cultural expressions throughout the region.  It will also promote linguistic diversity since the films will be presented in the dialect of the child featured in the segment.  

Al Karma Edutainment in Egypt will serve as the regional representative and function as the hub for production activities.  Educational advisors from the region will also ensure that the audiovisual content is culturally appropriate and engaging. Other major project partners include the Mosaic Foundation and the National Conference for Community and Justice.

The series is to be broadcast throughout the Middle East and North Africa.  It will also include special programming for distribution in the United States, enabling young children and their parents and caregivers to experience the diversity of the Arabic-language culture as well as promoting respect and understanding between Arab and non-Arab children.

Link to previous project description: Shara’a Simsim

Website:   www.sesameworkshop.org
Related Organizations:   Sesame Workshop