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 an incredible, fully funded opportunity for aspiring leaders and changemakers from eligible countries to pursue a postgraduate degree in Ireland.
Named in honor of 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
The Seán MacBride Fellowship 2026–2027, part of the Ireland Fellows Programme, is now open for applications. This initiative targets outstanding professionals from eligible countries who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong commitment to national development.
Successful fellows will study for a one-year, fully funded master’s degree at one of Ireland’s leading universities, gaining knowledge, skills, and networks to drive change in their home country.
This fellowship celebrates the legacy of Seán MacBride, a renowned human rights advocate and former Irish Minister for External Relations, who also served as UN High Commissioner for Namibia during its path to independence. Through this program, the Irish Department of Foreign Affairs—via its Embassy in Lusaka—aims to strengthen ties between Namibia and Ireland while honoring MacBride’s enduring impact.
One fellowship position is reserved exclusively for Namibian applicants focusing on international relations, human rights, international law, or conflict resolution—a reflection of Ireland’s broader commitment to supporting Namibia’s development goals.
Fellowship Benefits
The selected fellow will receive comprehensive financial support, covering:
- Full tuition and academic fees
- International travel costs
- Accommodation
- Daily living expenses throughout the academic year
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Seán MacBride Fellowship, applicants must:
- Be citizens and current residents of Namibia
- Have at least two years of relevant professional experience related to 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 on a 4.0 scale (a second-class lower division may be considered with significant work experience)
- Have earned their undergraduate degree on or before 2014
- Not currently hold or be pursuing a master’s degree
- Be ready to begin a new master’s program in Ireland by August 2026
- Demonstrate leadership ability, commitment to Namibia’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and an interest in building partnerships with Ireland
- Select three eligible academic programs (from Sections C and D of the official Directory) aligned with their academic and career goals
- Meet all 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:
- Stage One: Preliminary Application
- Stage Two: Submission of a Detailed Application
- Stage Three: Interview Stage
In Conclusion
The Seán MacBride Fellowship under the Ireland Fellows Programme 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 program empowers you to make meaningful contributions to your country and the world.
If you’re ready to expand your horizons, strengthen your leadership, and play a role in global development, apply today.
Your journey to Ireland—and to making lasting change—begins here.
