University of KwaZulu-Natal professor Viktor Verijenko, who is at the centre of a plagiarism scandal involving Chippy Shaik, has resigned.

But the institution has vowed to continue with its investigation.

Verijenko, who is head of mechanical engineering at the university, supervised Shaik's Ph D.

On Sunday, a national newspaper alleged that Shamim "Chippy" Shaik, the brother of convicted fraudster Schabir Shaik, had plagiarised more than two-thirds of his 2003 doctorate in mechanical engineering.

Verijenko is in Australia on a year-long sabbatical.

Yesterday the university announced that it had received notification of Verijenko's resignation.

In a statement, the university said it had launched a full and thorough investigation.

"At this time there is a prima facie case which has to be answered; however, the parties involved have not been afforded an opportunity to respond.

"This principle of natural justice must be adhered to. Regrettably, we are given to understand through correspondence received from Professor Viktor Verijenko this morning that he has resigned from the University. This will not hinder the due process that has been put in place."

Verijenko, assisted by colleague Professor Sarp Adali, were sent letters last week summoning them to face a disciplinary hearing.

In a press statement issued yesterday, Sandile Phakathi, secretary-general of the SRC, said the latest scandal to rock the university once again brought the integrity of the institution's degrees into question.

With acknowledgement to Cape Argus.