Join the 2026 Fully Funded Sean MacBride Fellowship Ireland Fellows Programme.
Have you ever imagined studying at one of Europe’s most respected academic institutions? If you are driven by a desire to create positive change and expand your global perspective, the Ireland Fellows Programme Seán MacBride Fellowship 2026–2027 may be the opportunity you have been searching for.
This highly regarded, fully funded postgraduate fellowship enables outstanding professionals from eligible countries to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland. It combines academic excellence with cultural exchange, professional growth, and international collaboration—offering an experience that extends far beyond the classroom.
Named in honor of Seán MacBride, an influential Irish statesman, human rights champion, and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, the fellowship reflects Ireland’s long-standing commitment to leadership, diplomacy, and global cooperation.
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For those interested in international relations, human rights, law, or development, this program provides a powerful platform to learn, lead, and make lasting impact.
Join the 2026 Fully Funded Sean MacBride Fellowship Ireland Fellows Programme
Applications are now open for the Seán MacBride Fellowship for the 2026–2027 academic year. This opportunity targets emerging leaders and professionals who have shown strong potential and a clear commitment to contributing to national development.
Selected fellows will undertake a one-year master’s degree at an Irish university, with all major expenses fully covered. The fellowship honors Seán MacBride’s enduring legacy as Ireland’s former Minister for External Relations and his influential role in advancing peace, justice, and international diplomacy, including his work as UN High Commissioner during Namibia’s independence process.
Through this fellowship, the Government of Ireland—working through its Department of Foreign Affairs and the Irish Embassy in Lusaka—continues to strengthen its partnership with Namibia. For this cycle, one fellowship is reserved specifically for Namibian professionals pursuing studies in international relations, law, human rights, or conflict resolution.
What Makes This Fellowship Exceptional
The Seán MacBride Fellowship is not simply financial support; it is a transformative academic and professional journey. Fellows receive comprehensive funding that allows them to focus fully on learning and growth.
The fellowship covers:
- Full tuition and academic fees
- International travel to and from Ireland
- Free accommodation for the duration of the program
- A living allowance to support daily expenses throughout the academic year
This generous support ensures that financial constraints do not stand in the way of academic excellence or meaningful engagement.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered for the Seán MacBride Fellowship:
- Be a Namibian citizen currently residing in Namibia
- Have a minimum of two years of relevant professional experience
- Be employed within one of the following ministries:
- Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation
- Ministry of Justice (including the Judiciary)
- Ministry of Defense
- Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Protection
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or Second Class Honours (Upper Division). Applicants with lower grades may be considered if they possess substantial relevant experience.
- Have obtained the undergraduate degree in or before 2014
- Not currently hold or be enrolled in a postgraduate qualification
- Be available to begin a new master’s program in Ireland by August 2026
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential and a genuine commitment to advancing Namibia’s Sustainable Development Goals
- Show interest in building long-term professional and cultural ties with Ireland
- Select three eligible master’s programs from the official Directory of Eligible Programs (Sections C and D)
- Meet all academic and English language requirements for the chosen courses
- Have not applied more than once to the Ireland Fellows Programme in previous years
- Be fully available for the duration of the 2026–2027 academic year
Application Process
The selection process is carried out in three key stages:
- Initial Application: Submission of basic information and expression of interest
- Detailed Application: Completion of full documentation, including academic records, professional experience, and a personal statement
- Interview Stage: Shortlisted candidates participate in an interview to assess leadership potential, motivation, and vision
Only applicants who demonstrate both academic strength and a clear commitment to development and service will be selected.
Final Thoughts
The Seán MacBride Fellowship under the Ireland Fellows Programme is far more than a scholarship. It is an investment in people with the vision, integrity, and determination to shape a better future.
With full funding, access to Ireland’s leading universities, and inclusion in a global network of changemakers, this fellowship empowers participants to return home equipped with the knowledge and confidence to drive meaningful progress.
If you are ready to broaden your perspective, strengthen your leadership, and contribute to Namibia’s development, now is the time to act.
Apply today and take the first step toward academic excellence and transformative leadership in Ireland.
