Apply Today for the 2026 Sean MacBride Fellowship Fully Funded by the Ireland Fellows Programme.
Do you aspire to advance your education at one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions? The Ireland Fellows Programme’s Seán MacBride Fellowship 2026–2027 offers a fully funded opportunity for emerging leaders and changemakers from eligible countries to pursue a postgraduate degree in Ireland.
Named after Seán MacBride, the distinguished Irish statesman and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, this fellowship provides world-class education, cross-cultural exchange, and international networking. If you are passionate about social justice, diplomacy, or development, this could be the career-transforming opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
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Apply Today for the 2026 Sean MacBride Fellowship Fully Funded by the Ireland Fellows Programme
The Seán MacBride Fellowship 2026–2027, part of the Ireland Fellows Programme, seeks outstanding professionals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to national development.
Fellows will undertake a one-year, fully funded master’s degree at a top Irish university, gaining the knowledge, skills, and networks necessary to drive meaningful change in their home countries.
This fellowship honors Seán MacBride, a celebrated human rights advocate and former Irish Minister for External Relations, who also served as UN High Commissioner for Namibia during its independence process. Through this program, the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, via its Embassy in Lusaka, aims to strengthen ties between Namibia and Ireland, while commemorating MacBride’s enduring impact.
One fellowship position is reserved exclusively for Namibian applicants focused on international relations, human rights, international law, or conflict resolution, reflecting Ireland’s commitment to supporting Namibia’s development goals.
Fellowship Benefits
The selected fellow will receive full financial coverage, including:
- Tuition and academic fees
- International travel costs
- Accommodation
- Daily living expenses for the academic year
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen and current resident of Namibia
- Have at least two years of relevant professional experience in their proposed field of study
- Currently work in one of the following ministries:
- Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation
- Ministry of Justice (including the Judiciary)
- Ministry of Defence
- Ministry of Gender Equality and Child Welfare
- Hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (or second-class lower with substantial work experience)
- Have earned their degree on or before 2014
- Not currently hold or pursue another master’s degree
- Be ready to begin studies in Ireland by August 2026
- Demonstrate leadership ability, commitment to Namibia’s SDGs, and interest in fostering partnerships with Ireland
- Select three eligible academic programs aligned with career and academic goals
- Meet all academic and English language requirements
- Not have applied more than once previously to the Ireland Fellows Programme
- Be prepared to accept and complete the fellowship during the 2026–2027 academic year
Application Process
The selection process has three stages:
- Preliminary Application – Initial eligibility screening
- Detailed Application Submission – Full documentation and study plan
- Interview Stage – Final selection based on merit, leadership potential, and motivation
Final Thoughts
The Seán MacBride Fellowship is more than a scholarship—it is a transformative investment in your professional growth and personal development. With full financial support, access to top Irish universities, and a global network of peers, this fellowship equips you to make lasting contributions to your country and beyond.
If you’re ready to expand your horizons, strengthen your leadership, and contribute to global development, apply today. Your journey to Ireland—and to making a meaningful impact—starts here.
