OpenAI, Malta Partner to Give Free Access to Citizens
OpenAI and Malta have announced a partnership to provide a world-first rollout of its paid product at a countrywide scale.
OpenAI and Malta have announced a partnership to provide ChatGPT Plus access to Maltese citizens who complete a national AI literacy course, in what the company described as a world-first rollout of its paid product at a countrywide scale.
The program, called AI for All, will be run with the Maltese government and will offer citizens and residents training on how to use artificial intelligence responsibly in everyday life, work and education. The course was developed by the University of Malta and is meant to explain what AI is, what it can and cannot do, and how to use it safely and practically.
After completing the course, eligible participants will receive one year of ChatGPT Plus at no cost to them. The first phase is expected to launch in May, with the Malta Digital Innovation Authority managing distribution. The program will expand as more Maltese residents and Maltese citizens living abroad complete the course.
OpenAI did not disclose the financial terms of the agreement. ChatGPT Plus normally costs $20 per month and provides enhanced access to ChatGPT, including higher usage limits, faster responses and expanded tools. Tiny detail, apparently countries are now bulk-buying intelligence like office chairs. The future is deeply normal.
Maltese Economy Minister Silvio Schembri said the initiative is designed to ensure that every citizen has the chance to build confidence and skills for a digital world. He said the program would turn AI from an unfamiliar concept into practical help for families, students and workers.
“Malta is the first country to launch a partnership of this scale because we refuse to let our citizens stay behind in the digital age,” Schembri said.
George Osborne, OpenAI’s head of OpenAI for Countries, said Malta was leading Europe and the world by trying to bring AI access to all citizens. He said governments have a key role in making sure people have both access to AI tools and the skills to use them effectively.
The agreement is part of OpenAI for Countries, a program aimed at helping governments move from early interest in AI toward national adoption plans. OpenAI said the initiative is not built around a single model, but tailored to local priorities such as education, workforce training, public services, startup support and AI literacy.
OpenAI said it is already working with other countries including Estonia and Greece on national education initiatives.