PhD Thesis in Department of Mechanical Engineering at UKZN : S. Shaikh 961129282
 

2007-10-30

The Chairman
Higher Degrees Committee
King George V Avenue
University of kwaZulu-Natal
Durban
kwaZulu-Natal

PhD Thesis in Department of Mechanical Engineering at UKZN : S. Shaikh 961129282

 
On 2007-04-17 advised that I had reviewed a doctoral thesis in respect of a degree awarded by the University of Natal in respect
of :

Candidate       : Shaik, Shamin

Title            : Development of higher-order theories for the analysis of laminated composite structures under static and thermal loading

Details : Durban, 2002.  xiii, 202 leaves.  Thesis (Ph.D.-Mechanical Engineering)-University of Natal, 2002
                   03/02629     MAIN LIBRARY           T 624.1776 SHA


I advised that after thorough reading and rereading of the thesis I was of the opinion that this was not the own unaided work of the candidate as attested in the declaration and/or that there was the distinct possibility of plagiarism or undue collaboration with the candidate's supervisors and/or examiners, Professors Viktor Verijenko and Sarp Adali (as well, possibly, as others such as Dr Pavel Tabakov, Prof Piskunov and Prof Theodore Tauchert).

While there has been acknowledgement of my advisement and an undertaking to investigate same, I am somewhat concerned that I have not heard anything official further in this regard.

Furthermore I am of the understanding that there is subsequent third party support for my conclusions from more than one quarter, of whom some are more qualified to make such findings than I am. As such, I would have the view that there is a prima facie case for the matter that I have brought to the attention of the University.

Having been the primary whistleblower in this matter, as well as having expended considerable amounts of time and money in its initial investigation and having taken considerable personal risks in bringing it to the attention of the University, I would think that I have some kind of legitimate expectation in the University bringing this matter to a conclusion in a reasonable period of time, including the possible formal rejection of my claims. I would also have thought that the University could and should give me some indication that a formal process is in progress or otherwise.

As more than six months have elapsed since my initial advisement, my concerns in this regard are mounting.

I would be pleased to hear from the University regarding this matter.


R.M. Young