SMU has launched a scholarship which is aimed at national athletes pursuing their studies at SMU from August 2017 onwards. Named in honour of the three-time Paralympic gold-medallist, the Yip Pin Xiu Scholarship was announced on Tuesday (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. Prof Kong hailed Pin Xiu 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, a final-year SMU Social Sciences undergraduate, said that she was "very honoured" to play a part in helping recipients reach their “full potential”. “It can help give fire to their passion for a bit longer, knowing they are not alone on this journey. Support (for athletes) is very important,” she noted. 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.