OpenAI is offering ChatGPT Plus to all residents and citizens of Malta for one year, marking a unique partnership with the nation. This collaboration is described as a “world’s first partnership” by OpenAI.
Silvio Schembri, Malta’s minister for Economy, Enterprise and Strategic Projects, stated that the initiative aims to ensure that citizens do not fall behind in the digital age. “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.
To access the ChatGPT Plus subscription, which costs $20 a month in the US, approximately 574,250 residents must first complete a course developed by the University of Malta. The course will cover the basics of artificial intelligence and responsible technology usage.
Residents must also possess an active eID account from the European Union to claim this subscription. OpenAI indicated that the first phase of the program is set to launch this month, with the Malta Digital Innovation Authority overseeing operations.
The program is expected to expand as more Maltese residents and citizens abroad complete the required course. In a separate development, OpenAI has paused its Stargate data center plans in the UK due to high energy costs and regulatory challenges.
