African dinosaur book launched at Scifest

Prof Anusuya Chinamy-Turan (right) with learners and Minister Mosibudi Mangena at SciFest Africa.

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