SMU has launched a scholarship which is aimed at national athletes pursuing their studies at SMU. Named in honour of the three-time Paralympic gold-medallist, the Yip Pin Xiu Scholarship was announced today (Dec 6) by SMU Provost and Lee Kong Chian Chair Professor of Social Sciences Professor Lily Kong, on the second day of SMU’s Leadership Symposium. Pin Xiu, a current final-year SMU Social Sciences undergraduate, was present at the launch. Prof Kong hailed Yip as "not only an ambassador for sports, but a role model and inspiration to all Singaporeans". "For these reasons, SMU has named a scholarship after Pin Xiu, to recognise her strife and personal journey, work and contribution to her sport, SMU and Singapore," she said in a statement.

Pin Xiu said in a media statement that she was "very honoured" by SMU's gesture. She said of her university: "SMU has given me the opportunity to train and compete at the highest level while still studying at the same time. Their understanding has allowed me to push sporting boundaries and I hope this scholarship will give others the chance and motivation to pursue sporting excellence."

The bond-free scholarship offers a full waiver of tuition fees and a Growth Opportunities Allowance for “outstanding national athletes” furthering their education at SMU. It is open to new first-year undergraduate students of all physical backgrounds. The scholarship, which commences in August 2017, adds to a slew of over 100 already available to SMU undergraduates. However, it will be SMU's first full sports scholarship.