Ireland Opens Fully Funded Masters Fellowship For Zimbabweans And Other Africans

Ireland Fellows Programme 2026-27 Announced For Early To Mid-Career Professionals From Zimbabwe And Other Eligible Countries | Fully Funded Study In Ireland

The prestigious Ireland Fellows Programme 2026–27 has officially been launched, offering fully funded master’s-level study opportunities in Ireland to early to mid-career professionals from Zimbabwe and more than 25 eligible countries. This life-changing opportunity is funded by Irish Aid, the development cooperation programme of Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs, and aims to equip professionals with the skills, knowledge and qualifications to make meaningful contributions in their home countries.

This highly competitive scholarship programme not only opens doors to world-class academic training but also enhances leadership capacity, fosters international networks, and builds long-lasting relationships between Ireland and partner countries across Africa and beyond.

What Is The Ireland Fellows Programme?

The Ireland Fellows Programme is part of the Irish Government’s wider commitment to support global development through education, in line with its development cooperation priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It offers early to mid-career professionals from eligible countries an opportunity to undertake a fully funded one-year master’s degree in Ireland.

Participants are expected to return home upon completion of their studies and contribute to the development of their own societies, applying the knowledge and skills gained during their time in Ireland.

The programme seeks to empower future leaders, particularly those from underrepresented, disadvantaged, or minority backgrounds.

“The Ireland Fellows Programme promotes gender equality, inclusion, and diversity,” a spokesperson from Irish Aid said. “We particularly encourage applications from women, persons with disabilities, and members of marginalised groups.”

Who Is Funding And Administering The Programme?

The programme is funded by Irish Aid, which operates under the Department of Foreign Affairs of Ireland. It is administered in partnership with a network of Irish universities, embassies, and implementing partners who help identify suitable candidates and support them throughout the fellowship journey.

What Does The Fellowship Cover?

The Ireland Fellows Programme 2026–27 is fully funded, covering all essential costs associated with study and living in Ireland, including:

  • University tuition and registration fees

  • Return air travel (economy class) between the candidate’s home country and Ireland

  • Settling-in allowance to assist with initial expenses upon arrival

  • Monthly living stipend of EUR 700 (approx. ZAR 14,000 or USD 760)

  • Accommodation support for the first and second trimesters (September to May)

  • Monthly housing allowance of EUR 800–1000 (approx. ZAR 16,000–20,000 or USD 870–1090) for the third trimester, based on location

  • Completion and departure allowance

  • Health insurance coverage

  • Access to extracurricular training, workshops, networking, and volunteering opportunities

Participants will also benefit from personal and professional development through Ireland’s vibrant academic and cultural life.

Programme Duration And Timing

The programme will begin in August or September 2026, depending on the university calendar. The duration is between 10 to 16 months, depending on the structure of the selected master’s course.

Applicants must be available to relocate to Ireland in time for the programme start date and must commit to returning home after completing their studies.

What Subjects Can You Study?

The programme supports study in disciplines that contribute to the achievement of the SDGs and development priorities. Eligible courses include:

  • Agriculture and Rural Development

  • Health and Health Systems

  • Education Policy and Administration

  • Human Rights and Governance

  • Climate and Environmental Studies

  • Computer Science and Information Systems

  • Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, etc.)

  • Business and Management

  • Marine and Freshwater Resources

Candidates must select three relevant master’s programmes from a directory of eligible courses aligned with their academic and professional background.

Who Is Eligible To Apply?

Applicants must meet the following general eligibility criteria:

  • Be a resident national of one of the eligible countries, including:

    • Zimbabwe, Zambia, South Africa, Kenya, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Malawi, Uganda, Tanzania, Sudan, South Sudan, Ghana, Lesotho, Liberia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Mozambique, Angola, Burundi, Eritrea, Djibouti, Somalia, Eswatini, and African SIDS (Small Island Developing States) such as Seychelles, Mauritius, Cabo Verde, and others.

  • Hold a Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of 4.0

  • Have 2–3 years of relevant work experience

  • Not currently hold a master’s degree

  • Be available to commence the programme in August/September 2026

  • Be committed to returning home and contributing to national development

  • Demonstrate leadership skills, a commitment to SDGs, and the ability to foster positive relationships with Ireland

  • Have proof of English language proficiency (usually via IELTS)

  • Must not have applied more than once for the same fellowship

“This scholarship is about investing in people who have the potential to bring change,” said an official from the Embassy of Ireland. “It is not only about academic excellence, but also leadership, impact, and vision.”

Special Fellowships For Specific Countries

Some countries have dedicated fellowship tracks under the broader Ireland Fellows Programme:

  • Zimbabwe: Eligible under the general stream

  • South Africa: Kader Asmal Fellowship (fields include human rights, education, agriculture, and health)

  • Zambia: Frank Ferguson Fellowship (for engineering and water resource management)

  • Nigeria: Roger Casement Fellowship (law, human rights, governance)

  • Namibia: Sean MacBride Fellowship (law and human rights)

  • Burundi: Courtney Fellowship (MPhil in Peace Studies at Trinity College Dublin)

  • African SIDS: Ireland SIDS Fellowship (multi-sectoral focus)

How To Apply?

Applications must be submitted online through the official Irish Aid Fellowship Portal. The application process is structured in three stages:

Stage 1 – Preliminary Application

  • Opens: 30 June 2025

  • Closes: 25 July 2025

Stage 2 – Detailed Application

  • Opens: 22 September 2025

  • Closes: 17 October 2025

Stage 3 – Interviews

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews in late 2025 or early 2026.

Applicants must submit the following documents:

  • A recent passport-sized photo

  • Degree certificate and academic transcripts

  • Two letters of recommendation

  • Copy of passport identity page

  • IELTS test score

  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)

  • A signed declaration confirming understanding of the fellowship terms

Candidates are advised to identify and shortlist three relevant master’s degree programmes aligned with their qualifications and career goals before applying.

“The earlier you start the application process, the better prepared you’ll be,” advised a former fellow from Kenya. “Make sure your application is thoughtful and shows how you plan to give back to your community.”

Why Apply For The Ireland Fellows Programme?

This is more than just a scholarship—it’s an investment in your professional future and the future of your country. It opens the door to top-tier universities such as Trinity College Dublin, University College Dublin, University College Cork, and many more.

Ireland is also known for its safe and friendly environment, high quality of education, and strong cultural heritage.

For professionals from Zimbabwe and other eligible countries, this could be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to gain internationally recognised qualifications while building lifelong friendships and networks in one of Europe’s most innovative countries.

 

Official Website To Apply

Visit the official Ireland Fellows Programme website to apply and access application forms, eligibility details, and guidance.

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The post Ireland Opens Fully Funded Masters Fellowship For Zimbabweans And Other Africans appeared first on iHarare News.

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