African dinosaur book launched at Scifest

Prof Anusuya Chinamy-Turan's new African dinosaur book for children was launched at the SciFest in Grahamstown on 18 April. She was photographed with the Minister of Science and Technology, Mosibudi Mangena, and a group of appreciative young scholars who took part in a dinosaur colour-in competition

Professor Anusuya Chinsamy-Turan launched her new children's book, Famous Dinosaurs of Africa, at the national science festival, aka SciFest Africa, that took place in Grahamstown from 16-22 April.

The book puts African dinosaurs firmly on the world map. Though African dinosaurs are important to palaeontology, they're often omitted from books. Chinsamy-Turan wants to introduce African children to their own heritage.

"I believe that dinosaurs can be a kind of stepping stone into the world of science," she says.

UCT was well represented at SciFest. Among those who delivered lectures or presentations were Professor John Compton of the Department of Geological Sciences; chief scientific officer for oceanography, Pavs Pillay; and Professor Johann Lutjeharms of the Department of Oceanography.