2026–2027 Engineering Fellowship for Zambians With Frank Ferguson Fully Funded Program.
Applications are now open for the prestigious Frank Ferguson Fellowship in Engineering under the Ireland Fellows Programme 2026–2027. This fully funded initiative offers qualified Zambian engineers the chance to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland, enhance their leadership skills, and contribute meaningfully to Zambia’s development.
The program is managed by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and funded by the Government of Ireland, aiming to equip Zambia’s future leaders with the knowledge, experience, and global exposure needed to drive sustainable progress. Professionals in engineering or related fields with demonstrated commitment to their communities and careers are ideal candidates.
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2026–2027 Engineering Fellowship for Zambians With Frank Ferguson Fully Funded Program
About the Frank Ferguson Fellowship
The fellowship, named after Frank Ferguson, a renowned engineer and inventor who transformed Zambia’s infrastructure over five decades, will sponsor up to two Zambian engineers (one male, one female) to pursue a master’s degree in engineering at University of Galway, ranked among the top 2% of universities worldwide. The University’s School of Engineering is renowned for its research excellence and state-of-the-art facilities, situated in one of Ireland’s most vibrant cities.
This initiative aligns with Ireland’s global engagement strategy, supporting policies like Global Ireland, A Better World, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The program is administered in Ireland by the Irish Council for International Students (ICOS), with participating countries coordinating through their Irish embassies.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a Zambian citizen residing in Zambia.
- Have at least three years of professional experience in engineering.
- Be a registered member of the Engineering Institution of Zambia.
- Hold an engineering degree (or closely related qualification) at Merit level or higher from an accredited institution.
- Meet the University of Galway’s academic admission requirements for the selected master’s program.
- Not be enrolled in or starting another master’s or higher degree during the 2025–2026 academic year.
- Be prepared to start their master’s in Ireland by August 2026.
- Demonstrate leadership potential, commitment to Zambia’s SDGs, and interest in strengthening ties with Ireland.
- Select two suitable engineering programs from the University of Galway.
- Meet the academic and English language requirements for the chosen programs.
- Have submitted no more than one prior application to the Ireland Fellows Program.
- Be willing to accept and complete the fellowship during 2026–2027.
Eligible Master’s Programs at the University of Galway
Applicants may choose from the following postgraduate programs:
- Master’s in Civil Engineering
- Master of Science in Energy Systems Engineering
- Master of Science in Marine and Freshwater Resources Management
- Master of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Application Process
The fellowship selection involves three main stages:
- Preliminary Application – Initial screening and eligibility check.
- Full Application with Research Proposal – Submission of detailed documents and study plans.
- Interview Stage – Final selection based on academic excellence, leadership potential, and motivation.
Why Apply?
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship offers more than just financial support. It’s a transformative opportunity for Zambian engineers to:
- Gain world-class education in Ireland.
- Build international networks with professionals and scholars.
- Develop innovative skills to contribute to Zambia’s growth.
- Strengthen leadership abilities and global perspectives.
If you’re passionate about engineering, eager to make a meaningful impact in Zambia, and ready to advance your career internationally, this fully funded Ireland Fellows Program is the perfect opportunity.
Apply now and take the next step in shaping the future of engineering in Zambia.
