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 aspiring leaders and changemakers from eligible countries to pursue a postgraduate degree in Ireland.
Named after Seán MacBride, a distinguished Irish statesman and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, this fellowship opens doors to world-class education, cross-cultural exchange, and meaningful international connections. If you’re passionate about social justice, diplomacy, or development, this could be the opportunity that transforms your career.
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Apply Today for the 2026 Sean MacBride Fellowship Fully Funded by the Ireland Fellows Programme
About the Seán MacBride Fellowship
The fellowship targets outstanding professionals from eligible countries who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to national development. Successful applicants will pursue a one-year, fully funded master’s degree at a leading Irish university, gaining the knowledge, skills, and networks to drive impactful change at home.
This program honors Seán MacBride’s legacy as a human rights advocate and former Irish Minister for External Relations, who also served as UN High Commissioner for Namibia. The Irish Department of Foreign Affairs, via its Embassy in Lusaka, aims to strengthen ties between Namibia and Ireland while supporting national development goals.
One fellowship position is reserved exclusively for Namibian applicants focusing on international relations, human rights, international law, or conflict resolution.
Fellowship Benefits
Selected fellows receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Full tuition and academic fees
- International travel costs
- Accommodation
- Daily living expenses throughout the academic year
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens and current residents of Namibia
- Have at least two years of relevant professional experience
- 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 (minimum GPA 3.0/4.0; second-class lower division may be considered with significant experience)
- Have earned their undergraduate degree on or before 2014
- Not currently hold or be pursuing a master’s degree
- Be ready to start a new master’s program in Ireland by August 2026
- Demonstrate leadership ability, commitment to Namibia’s SDGs, and an interest in building partnerships with Ireland
- Select three eligible academic programs aligned with their goals
- Meet academic and English language requirements
- Have not previously applied more than once to the Ireland Fellows Programme
- Be prepared to take up the fellowship during the 2026–2027 academic year
Application Process
The selection process consists of three phases:
- Preliminary Application – Initial screening of eligibility
- Detailed Application Submission – Submission of documents, proposals, and supporting materials
- Interview Stage – Final selection based on leadership potential, experience, and motivation
Final Thoughts
The Seán MacBride Fellowship is more than a scholarship—it’s a transformative investment in your professional and personal growth. With full financial support, access to top Irish universities, and a lifelong network of global peers, this fellowship empowers you to make meaningful contributions to your country and the world.
If you’re ready to expand your horizons, strengthen your leadership, and drive global development, apply today.
Your journey to Ireland—and to making lasting change—begins here.
