Malta has become the first country to partner with OpenAI to roll out ChatGPT Plus to its citizens through a national AI literacy programme.
OpenAI and the Government of Malta announced the deal on May 16. Under the partnership, Maltese citizens can receive one year of ChatGPT Plus at no cost after completing an AI literacy course.
The free access is linked to Malta’s “AI for All” initiative. The course was developed by the University of Malta and is designed to teach people what AI is, what it can and cannot do, and how to use it responsibly at home, in learning, and at work.
The Malta Digital Innovation Authority is leading the national programme and will manage distribution to eligible participants. The first phase will launch in May, and the programme will expand as more Maltese residents and citizens abroad complete the course.
The programme is open to Maltese citizens and residents with an active eID account, according to the Malta Digital Innovation Authority.
Participants do not need any previous AI knowledge. The course is fully online and can be completed at the participant’s own pace.
The programme will also be available to Maltese citizens living abroad, Reuters reported.
Participants must complete three core modules before receiving access to the AI platform subscription.
The core modules cover AI fundamentals and critical use, AI for everyday life, and AI for learning. Additional modules cover AI for professionals, job seekers, entrepreneurship, accessibility and independent living, and formal education for teachers, parents, and school communities.
After completing the three fundamental modules, participants will receive a certificate of completion and a free 12-month subscription to the designated AI platform.
A regular ChatGPT Plus subscription costs $20 per month, according to OpenAI’s Help Center .
The Malta programme gives eligible participants access for 12 months from activation. The license is personal, non-transferable, and cannot be sold, rented, gifted, or redistributed. MDIA also says it has no obligation to renew, extend, or fund access after the first 12 months.
Maltese Economy Minister Silvio Schembri said the programme aims to give every citizen the confidence and skills needed to use AI in daily life.
He said Malta wants to turn AI from an unfamiliar concept into practical assistance for families, students, and workers.
George Osborne, head of OpenAI for Countries, said the partnership shows how governments can give citizens both access to AI tools and the skills needed to use them.
OpenAI did not disclose the financial terms of the deal, Reuters reported.
Malta’s population was estimated at 574,250 by the end of 2024, according to figures released by the National Statistics Office and reported by MaltaToday.
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