By Alicia Chamely

TRINIDAD and Tobago is joining OpenAI’s Education for Countries initiative aimed at building future-ready education systems through the utilisation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools and universities.

In a press release on Wednesday, the Ministry of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence (MPAAI) announced their partnership with OpenAI, which had resulted in T&T being selected to join the Education for Countries initiative.

The Ministry stated, “This strategic collaboration marks a pivotal milestone in the Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago’s (GORTT) Official Policy Framework, thus positioning Trinidad and Tobago as a regional pioneer in the integration of advanced AI technologies into the fabric of national development.”

Stating OpenAI was the global leader in AI research and development, the release read, “The partnership with OpenAI complements MPAAI’s ongoing technical collaborations with international bodies to ensure responsible and ethical AI adoption.”

MPAAI stated the Education for Countries initiative was “designed to help nations build future-ready education systems by embedding AI tools into schools and universities to personalise learning, reduce administrative burdens for educators and equip the workforce with the essential skills required for a world increasingly shaped by AI.”

They noted T&T was among eight other countries joining the initiative’s first cohort, and the only Caribbean country.

Discussing the partnership with OpenAI and joining the initiative, Minister of Public Administration and Artificial Intelligence Dominic Smith said, “This milestone positions MPAAI as the first ministry in the Caribbean to participate in this programme, a reflection of deliberate leadership, long term strategy and a commitment to responsible AI that delivers real benefits for citizens.”

“Through partnerships like this, we are not just adopting new tools, we are building a modern, inclusive and future-ready state where technology expands opportunity for all,” Smith added.

An announcement on Wednesday on OpenAI’s website stated the initiative was developed as part of the organization’s mission to ensure AI benefits everyone.

OpenAI stated, “OpenAI’s Education for Countries builds on this mission, as well as our work to ensure AI expands economic opportunity with OpenAI Certifications, which help individuals build foundational AI skills and give clear signals to employers about their ability to use AI effectively at work.”

OpenAI stated the Education for Countries initiatives would involve several core elements, which were:

• AI tools for learning: Access to ChatGPT Edu⁠ GPT‑5.2, study mode, and canvas can be customized to shape how the world’s most advanced AI models are used to support local learning priorities.
• Learning outcomes research: Collaboration on large-scale, national research initiatives to understand how AI supports learning and affects teacher productivity, which can inform local policy, workforce development, and future technology design.
• OpenAI Certifications and training: Tailored training with ministries and education systems, from the OpenAI Academy⁠ to ChatGPT‑based certifications, giving educators and students the practical AI skills aligned with national workforce priorities.
• Global network of partners: A growing network of governments, researchers, and education leaders who share insights, highlight successful deployments, and help shape responsible approaches to AI in education.

Countries participating in the Education for Countries initiative were Trinidad and Tobago, the United Arab Emirates, Estonia, Greece, the Republic of Kazakhstan, Jordan and Slovakia.