The Ireland Fellows Programme has announced applications for the Frank Ferguson Fellowship in Engineering 2027, offering qualified engineering professionals from Zambia the opportunity to pursue fully funded master’s degree studies at the University of Galway in Ireland. The prestigious fellowship seeks to develop future leaders, strengthen engineering capacity in Zambia, and foster long-term partnerships between Ireland and Zambia. The programme aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by supporting professionals committed to sustainable national development and international collaboration. Eligible applicants are encouraged to prepare their applications carefully, as the fellowship follows a competitive multi-stage selection process. Fellowship Supports Zambia’s Future Engineering Leaders The Frank Ferguson Fellowship is specifically designed for engineering professionals who have demonstrated both academic excellence and professional experience. Through postgraduate education in Ireland, fellows will gain advanced technical knowledge while developing leadership skills that can contribute to Zambia’s national development priorities upon their return. According to the programme, the fellowship has three primary objectives: Nurture future leaders in engineering and related fields. Build in-country capacity to support the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals. Strengthen positive and lasting relationships between Ireland and Zambia. The initiative forms part of the broader Ireland Fellows Programme, which supports talented professionals from eligible countries through internationally recognised postgraduate education. Eligible Master’s Programmes at the University of Galway Applicants must select two eligible master’s programmes offered by the University of Galway that align with their academic qualifications and professional experience. Available programmes include: MSc in Civil Engineering MSc in Mechanical Engineering MSc in Energy Systems Engineering MSc in Intelligent Robotics MSc in Medical Electronics & Digital Health MSc in Marine and Freshwater Resources: Management Candidates are advised to review the admission requirements for each programme, particularly the academic qualifications and English language proficiency standards required for entry. Eligibility Requirements for the 2027 Fellowship To qualify for the Ireland Fellows Programme – Frank Ferguson Fellowship commencing in the 2027/2028 academic year, applicants must satisfy several academic and professional requirements. Eligible candidates must: Be a resident citizen of Zambia. Have at least three years of substantial professional work experience directly related to their intended field of study. Be a registered member of the Engineering Institution of Zambia. Hold an engineering degree or a closely related qualification with a Merit classification or higher from an accredited and government-recognised institution. Meet the admission requirements for master’s study at the University of Galway. Not already possess a master’s degree or higher qualification. Not currently be enrolled in, or scheduled to begin, another master’s programme during the 2026/2027 academic year. Be applying to begin a new master’s programme in Ireland no earlier than August 2027. Demonstrate leadership potential and aspirations. Show commitment to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals within Zambia. Demonstrate willingness to strengthen cooperation and relationships between Zambia and Ireland. Select two eligible engineering programmes relevant to their academic and professional background. Understand the academic and English language requirements for their chosen courses. Have applied to the Ireland Fellows Programme no more than once previously. Be available to undertake the fellowship during the 2027/2028 academic year. The programme notes that financial support is provided only for the fellowship recipient. Funding does not extend to spouses, children, or other dependents, and visa support is similarly limited to the successful applicant. Three-Stage Application Process Applicants will progress through a structured selection process designed to assess both academic readiness and leadership potential. The application process consists of: Stage One: Preliminary application. Stage Two: Detailed application. Stage Three: Interview. Prospective applicants are encouraged to carefully review the official guidance documents before submitting their applications, as eligibility criteria may vary across participating countries. English Language Requirements English language proficiency remains a mandatory requirement for admission to Irish higher education institutions. Applicants shortlisted after the preliminary application stage who do not already possess an accepted English language qualification will be required to complete the Duolingo English Test, which is recognised by most Irish universities. However, candidates applying for programmes that do not accept Duolingo scores will instead be required to sit the IELTS examination in January 2027. The programme emphasises that English language certification is necessary not only for university admission but also for Irish visa applications. Fellowship Strengthens International Development and Engineering Capacity The Frank Ferguson Fellowship continues Ireland’s commitment to investing in human capital development across Africa by equipping engineering professionals with internationally recognised qualifications and leadership experience. By supporting talented Zambian engineers through advanced education at the University of Galway, the fellowship aims to generate long-term benefits for infrastructure development, innovation, sustainability, and national economic growth. Graduates are expected to apply their newly acquired expertise in Zambia while strengthening academic, professional, and diplomatic links between the two countries. Interested engineering professionals are encouraged to review the official applicant guidance, confirm their eligibility, and prepare the required documentation before beginning the application process. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. 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