Fully Funded Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme to Study in Ireland 2025

Deadline: 25 July 2025 Applications are now open for the Ireland Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme 2026–2027, a prestigious opportunity funded by the Irish Government to support early-career South African professionals who wish to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in Ireland. This fellowship is part of the wider Ireland-Africa Fellows Programme and is designed to develop future leaders committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building stronger ties between Ireland and South Africa. The programme is more than just a scholarship — it is a chance to gain world-class knowledge, expand your professional network, and return home equipped to make a meaningful impact in your field and community. About the Programme The Kader Asmal Fellowship honours the legacy of the late Professor Kader Asmal, who was instrumental in fostering connections between Ireland and South Africa and championing human rights and social justice. Fellows will benefit from a unique combination of academic excellence, leadership development, and cultural exchange while studying at one of Ireland’s top universities. Eligibility Criteria To apply, you must:

• Be a South African citizen and resident.
• Have at least two years of relevant, full-time work experience, which can include internships or significant volunteer work.
• Hold an honours or equivalent bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent). If you hold a second-class degree (Grade 2), you may still be eligible if you have strong work experience.
• Have been awarded your degree in 2014 or later.
• Not already hold a Master’s qualification.
• Be able to commence studies in Ireland in August or September 2026.
• Show leadership skills or potential, commitment to the SDGs, and an intention to contribute meaningfully to your community upon your return.
• Select two or three eligible Master’s programmes from the official Directory of Eligible Programmes.
• Have not previously applied more than once for the Ireland-Africa Fellows Programme.

What the Fellowship Covers The fellowship provides comprehensive support so that you can focus entirely on your studies and leadership development. It includes:

• Full tuition and university application fees.
• Examination and academic-related costs.
• Return economy airfare to Ireland.
• Student visa fees and medical insurance.
• A settling-in allowance and a completion or departure allowance.
• Book and study allowances.
• Monthly living stipend of approximately €700.
• Fully arranged accommodation for the first two trimesters, with a housing allowance for the third.
• Leadership training and networking opportunities with other fellows and alumni.

Eligible Programmes Fellows can choose from a range of Master’s programmes that align with South Africa’s development priorities and the SDGs. Eligible fields include:

• Sustainable Development, Climate Change, and Environmental Science
• Renewable Energy, Engineering, and Sustainable Technology
• Public Policy, International Relations, and Human Rights Law
• Health Sciences, Public Health, and Health Policy
• Gender Studies and Social Justice
• Education, Curriculum Development, and Leadership
• Food Science, Agriculture, and Biotechnology
• ICT, Data Science, and Innovation
• Business Administration, Economics, and Finance
• Tourism, Hospitality, and Cultural Heritage

All programmes must be selected from the official Directory of Eligible Programmes, which you should review carefully when deciding where to apply. Suggested Next Steps

1. Visit the Canon Collins Trust and Irish Aid websites to download the full guidelines and the Directory of Eligible Programmes.
2. Research universities and courses that match your background and goals. Choose two or three programmes that demonstrate clear links to your career plans.
3. Start preparing the required documents, including certified academic transcripts, your CV, personal statement, English proficiency evidence (if needed), and two references.
4. Draft a compelling personal statement that highlights your leadership, your commitment to the SDGs, and how you plan to apply your skills and knowledge to benefit South Africa after your studies.
5. Complete and submit your Stage 1 application online well before the deadline of 25 July 2025 at 3 pm GMT to avoid last-minute issues.
6. Prepare for Stage 2 if you are shortlisted, which may include interviews or additional supporting materials.
7. Stay engaged and informed by regularly checking for updates from Canon Collins Trust or Irish Aid.

Application Click here to apply