Malta is making history as the first country to partner directly with OpenAI, offering every citizen free access to ChatGPT Plus for one year. The initiative is part of a government-led AI literacy program designed to demystify artificial intelligence and integrate it into daily life.
To qualify, citizens and residents must complete a free online course called AI for All, created by the University of Malta. The course covers what AI is, its capabilities and limitations, and how to use it responsibly at home and work.
The program launches in phases starting May, managed by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority. As more people complete the course, access to the subscriptions will expand.
Economic Minister Silvio Schembri said the program turns an unfamiliar concept into practical assistance for families, students, and workers. George Osborne, head of OpenAI for Countries, praised Malta for leading the way in empowering citizens with transformative AI tools.
This partnership follows similar but smaller government AI initiatives, including Anthropic's work with Icelandic teachers and OpenAI's collaboration with Greece's secondary schools and startups.