Malta will provide every citizen with free access to ChatGPT Plus after completing a new AI literacy course, marking the first national-level partnership of its kind with OpenAI. The initiative, launching in May and managed by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority, aims to empower residents with practical AI skills and responsible usage through a course developed by the University of Malta. Maltese Minister for Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, Silvio Schembri, said the course is designed to ensure “every citizen, regardless of their background, has the chance to build the confidence and skills needed to thrive in a digital world.” According to George Osborne, Head of OpenAI for Countries, “With this partnership, Malta is leading Europe and the world in bringing AI to all its citizens.”
Malta’s “AI for All” Initiative & ChatGPT Plus Access
Malta is providing all citizens with access to advanced artificial intelligence tools, specifically ChatGPT Plus, after completion of a dedicated AI literacy course. This program is the first national-level rollout of its kind, extending beyond limited trials to encompass an entire population and addressing a critical need for widespread AI fluency. The University of Malta developed this course, designed not simply as technical training, but to cultivate a nuanced understanding of artificial intelligence; it aims to teach citizens “what AI is, what it can and can’t do, and how to use it responsibly” at both home and in professional settings. This phased approach allows for monitoring and adaptation as the program scales to include Maltese residents living abroad, extending the benefits beyond the island nation’s borders.
OpenAI’s “For Countries” Program Supports National AI Adoption
The increasing accessibility of artificial intelligence is prompting nations to consider how best to integrate these tools into society, shifting from initial interest toward strategic national adoption. OpenAI’s initiative reflects this shift, tailoring programs to specific national priorities rather than imposing a standardized approach; the company is currently collaborating with governments in Estonia and Greece to bolster their national education systems. A concrete example of this approach is the partnership between OpenAI and the government of Malta, establishing a program to provide all citizens with access to ChatGPT Plus. This initiative focuses on equipping individuals with the necessary skills to utilize the technology effectively and responsibly.
The first phase of the program launched in May, with the Malta Digital Innovation Authority overseeing the distribution of access to eligible participants who complete the course; the program is designed to scale as more residents complete the training. This partnership signifies a broader recognition among governments of the need to proactively address AI adoption, ensuring citizens are not left behind in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.
With this partnership, Malta is leading Europe and the world in bringing AI to all its citizens” said George Osborne, Head of OpenAI for Countries.
George Osborne, Head of OpenAI for Countries
