OpenAI and the Government of Malta have launched a national AI literacy program that provides every Maltese citizen or resident with free access to ChatGPT Plus for one year after completing a free AI usage course.

The course, developed by the University of Malta, is a brief two-hour online program that teaches AI basics, capabilities and limits, responsible use, and can be completed at the participant’s own pace on desktop, tablet, or mobile.

Eligibility to activate the subscription requires completing the course and having an active EU eID account, with access administered by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority.

The initiative is part of OpenAI’s OpenAI for Countries program and marks the first such partnership between OpenAI and a national government to provide AI tools at scale.”

Malta is the first country to launch this type of program in partnership with OpenAI, highlighting the nation’s leadership in expanding citizen access to AI.

The program aims to raise public understanding of AI and support its use in education, business, and daily life, while addressing digital lag.

The course content covers AI fundamentals, what AI is able to do, its limits, and how to use it responsibly at home and at work.

OpenAI has pursued similar country partnerships and broader deployments, while pausing related projects in other regions due to costs and regulatory considerations.

Economy Minister Silvio Schembri described the initiative as pairing education with free access to advanced AI tools to benefit families, students, and workers.

The minister emphasized turning an unfamiliar concept into practical assistance that enhances daily life and work for Maltese residents.

Malta’s program is a flagship effort amid broader OpenAI country collaborations and reflects a strategic move to empower citizens with AI literacy.

Participants will receive a free 12-month subscription to ChatGPT Plus (or equivalent) after completing the course, with distribution managed by the Malta Digital Innovation Authority.