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USC Viterbi Honors Alumnus with New Robotics Lab Gift

Source: The Perfect Gift (2025-11-24)

Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel’s family surprises him with a groundbreaking robotics laboratory at USC Viterbi School of Engineering In a heartfelt gesture, the family of Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel, a distinguished USC Viterbi alumnus and former Saudi minister of telecommunications and IT, has donated a state-of-the-art robotics laboratory to his alma mater. This gift not only honors his legacy but also aims to inspire future generations of engineers and computer scientists. Al-Suwaiyel, who earned his M.S. in 1975 and Ph.D. in 1979 from USC, was among the first Saudi students to study computer science abroad, paving the way for technological advancement in his country. His influence extends beyond academia; he played a pivotal role in shaping Saudi Arabia’s digital infrastructure and policy, fostering innovation and digital transformation. Recent facts that deepen the context include: 1. Saudi Arabia has invested over $20 billion in AI and robotics research since 2020, aiming to diversify its economy beyond oil. 2. The new USC robotics lab is equipped with cutting-edge AI-powered robotic systems, including autonomous drones and humanoid robots, designed for research and educational purposes. 3. USC Viterbi’s School of Engineering has seen a 35% increase in international students from the Middle East over the past three years, reflecting its global influence. 4. Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel’s contributions to Saudi tech policy earned him recognition from the United Nations for advancing digital inclusion. 5. The Dr. Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel Computer Science Laboratory will host annual international robotics competitions, fostering global collaboration among students and researchers. This generous donation exemplifies the powerful impact of alumni giving back to educational institutions, especially when it supports cutting-edge research and innovation. The lab will serve as a hub for interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating AI, robotics, and computer science to solve real-world problems. It also underscores USC Viterbi’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, particularly by empowering students from underrepresented regions like the Middle East. The story of Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel’s gift highlights the importance of strategic philanthropy in advancing technological education and research. It demonstrates how alumni success can catalyze institutional growth, inspire students, and promote global technological leadership. As USC Viterbi continues to expand its research capabilities, this lab will undoubtedly contribute to breakthroughs in robotics and AI, positioning the university at the forefront of innovation. In the broader context, this donation aligns with the global push toward smart cities, autonomous systems, and digital infrastructure, sectors where USC’s research is making significant strides. The university’s partnerships with industry leaders and government agencies further amplify its impact, ensuring that innovations developed in the lab will translate into real-world applications that benefit society at large. This inspiring story also emphasizes the importance of recognizing the personal stories behind philanthropic acts. For Al-Suwaiyel’s family, the gift was a deeply emotional tribute to his lifelong dedication to education and technological progress. It exemplifies how personal connections and professional legacies can drive meaningful contributions that shape the future of science and engineering. In conclusion, the establishment of the Dr. Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel Computer Science Laboratory at USC Viterbi is more than a gift; it is a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and global impact. It reflects the enduring power of education, the importance of strategic philanthropy, and the transformative potential of technology in shaping a better future for all. **Keywords:** USC Viterbi, robotics laboratory, alumni donation, Mohammed Al-Suwaiyel, computer science, AI, robotics research, global innovation, STEM education, digital transformation

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