Ireland Fellows Programme Seán MacBride Fellowship 2026/27
- Omran Aburayya
- Jul 16
- 3 min read
If you’re a Namibian mid-career professional with a passion for human rights, justice, or international diplomacy—and eager to enhance your impact through world-class study in Ireland—the Seán MacBride Fellowship 2026/27 under the Ireland Fellows Programme is now open! This prestigious, fully-funded opportunity supports one promising applicant each year to pursue a master’s degree in Ireland, paired with leadership development and capacity building for national development.
🎓 Seán MacBride Fellowship Summary
Location: Ireland (selected higher education institutions)
Host: Ireland Fellows Programme – Seán MacBride Fellowship, funded by Irish Aid / Department of Foreign Affairs
Study Level: Master’s degree (10–16 months)
Target Group: Mid-career Namibian professionals working within key government ministries
Fields of Study: International relations, conflict resolution, human rights, international law at Irish universities
Award Coverage:
Full tuition and academic fees
Economy flights to/in/from Ireland
Visa, medical/travel insurance, Irish residence permit
Accommodation for Trimesters 1 & 2; stipend for Trimester 3 (€800–1 000/month)
Monthly stipend (~€700)
Settling‑in and completion allowances; extracurricular/training/networking access
Duration: One full academic year (10–16 months)
Application Deadline: Stage 1 Preliminary: June 30 – July 25, 2025
Program Start: Autumn 2026 (i.e. August/September)
Eligible Countries: Namibia only (Seán MacBride Fellowship)
✨ Fellowship Overview
Named in honor of Seán MacBride—former Irish Minister of External Affairs and UN High Commissioner for Namibia—the Fellowship aims to build institutional capacity in Namibia in areas spanning human rights, international law, and conflict resolution. Selected fellows benefit from rigorous academic training, leadership workshops, and networking opportunities in Ireland, then return to Namibia equipped to contribute at a national level and foster long-term links with Ireland.
🎁 Benefits
Comprehensive funding: All tuition, living expenses, travel, insurance, and visa covered
Support structure: Access to professional development, extracurricular training, and global alumni networks
Institutional impact: Employers gain a qualified leader to strengthen your ministry and support SDG‑aligned national goals
✅ Eligibility Criteria
Must be a resident national of Namibia
Substantial work experience (≥2 years) in one of these ministries: International Relations & Cooperation; Justice/Judiciary; Defence; or Gender Equality & Child Protection
Hold a bachelor’s degree (GPA ≥ 3.0/4.0) awarded in 2014 or later; first-class or second-class honours Grade 1 (Grade 2 considered with relevant experience)
Must not hold or be pursuing a master’s degree currently or in 2025/26
Able to commence new master’s study in Ireland from August 2026
Demonstrate leadership, commitment to SDGs, and intent to build relationships with Ireland
Select three eligible programmes from the official Directory
Meet English proficiency and academic requirements for chosen programmes
Not applied more than once previously
Must be available to take up the Fellowship in 2026/27
📃 Application Procedure
Stage 1 – Preliminary Application (Jun 30 – Jul 25, 2025): Submit basic information, CV, academic credentials, proof of employment, passport, and a short personal statement addressing leadership and SDG‑goals alignment .
Stage 2 – Detailed Application (Sep 22 – Oct 17, 2025): Shortlisted applicants complete essays, references, and select their three intended programmes .
Stage 3 – Interviews:Virtual interviews with embassy and ICOS representatives. If invited, take the Duolingo English Test; final IELTS required if you don’t already hold a qualifying certificate dated 2024 or later
Final Selection & Notification: Based on interviews and overall application quality. Successful candidate prepares for relocation to Ireland in August 2026.
🔎 Selection Criteria
Professional merit: Relevant ministry experience & leadership potential
Academic excellence: Strong undergraduate record & programme fit
SDG alignment: Clear plan to impact Namibia’s institutional capacity
Ireland linkages: Intent to strengthen partnerships and goodwill
Diversity & inclusion: Applications from women, minorities, and persons with disabilities encouraged
✨ Final Tips & Additional Info
Keep deadlines in mind: Preliminary stage – June 30 to July 25, 2025
Tailor your essays: Highlight policy, legal or human rights achievements linked to SDG‑16
Prepare early for Duolingo/IELTS after Stage 2 invitation
Choose programmes wisely: Ensure they closely match your current role and future goals
Engage with your embassy—they manage the application in Namibia
Stay updated: Use official sites like Irish Aid and Ireland Fellows Programme for guidance
📂 Resources
🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK
