International conference to celebrate diversity in science and technology communication

PRACTICAL science communicators and researchers across the globe are preparing to gather at UCT in December to celebrate innovative new work and ideas.

“The 7th International Conference on the Public Understanding of Science and Technology (PCST-7) is the largest of its kind to be held in this country,” says PCST-7 chairperson Marina Joubert, from the Foundation for Education, Science and Technology (FEST).

“Participants from over 30 countries will be coming to South Africa to discuss and debate a huge range of ideas as diverse as biotechnology, astronomy, health, the environment, media research and risk communication,” she added.

Communicators working with rural and indigenous communities, centres and museums, and scientific organisations will also be sharing their expertise at the conference, which is the second to be held in the Southern Hemisphere.

“When PCST-4 was held in Melbourne, Australia, it made me realise that a lot of talent and expertise exists in our part of the world that needs to be encouraged,” Joubert said. “PCST-7 will give our local professionals a chance to meet with researchers and communicators from all over the world to share ideas and information. If you are passionate about engaging the public in science and technology, this conference is for you.”

To be held directly after the solar eclipse in southern skies, PCST-7 aims to make lasting connections between people working in this emerging field, Joubert concluded. The Preliminary Programme for PCST-7 (December 5-7) is available at http://www.fest.org.za/pcst/programme/ .

For more information email Marina Joubert at FEST or phone her on 012-392-9320, cell: 083-409-4254.

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