Huang Xuhua, a recipient of the Medal of the Republic, the country's top honor, donated 11 million yuan ($172,000) of prize money to establish a fund for scientific research, Hubei Daily reported.

At the donation ceremony held on Thursday, Huang said the fund was created to motivate more young scientists to make innovations in research and contribute to the country's overall development.

"Independent innovation is an inevitable path for us to ascend the peak of science and technology. I hope to draw more attention and support to the country's scientific research, education and popularization work through my donation," he said.

Reports show Huang has given away nearly all his 20 million yuan of prize money from various awards to support the country's scientific development.

Huang is the chief designer of China's first-generation nuclear submarines. For over three decades, his work remained top secret.

He was one of eight recipients of the Medal of the Republic in 2019 for his outstanding contributions to the country.