The application window is officially open for the 2027/2028 Irish Aid Roger Casement Fellowship in Human Rights. This prestigious, fully funded programme aims to empower future leaders, enhance local capacity to advance national Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and Ireland.
The fellowship was established in honor of Roger Casement, an iconic Irish human rights activist who championed humanitarian causes during his early career in Calabar, Nigeria, as well as his subsequent work in the Congo, the Amazon, and Ireland.
Carrying forward his humanitarian legacy, this initiative sponsors selected Nigerian professionals to pursue a master’s degree in human rights-related fields in Ireland.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the academic year commencing in August 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality: Must be a resident citizen of Nigeria.
- Work Experience: A minimum of three years of substantial, professional work experience directly relevant to the selected course of study.
- Academic Qualifications: Must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution awarded in 2015 or later.
- Minimum Grade: A First Class or Second Class Upper (2:1) degree is required. A Second Class Lower (2:2) may be considered only if backed by extensive, highly relevant work experience.
- Prior Degrees: Applicants must not already hold a master’s degree (or higher) and cannot be currently enrolled in a postgraduate programme for the 2026/2027 academic year.
- Core Competencies: Ability to demonstrate leadership potential, a strong commitment to achieving the SDGs in Nigeria, and a desire to foster positive connections with Ireland.
- Course Selection: Candidates must select three eligible courses from the official: https://assets.ireland.ie/documents/IrelandFellows_CasementDirectory.pdf
- Language Proficiency: Must meet the strict English language requirements designated by Irish Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) and visa regulations.
- Application History: Limited to individuals who have not applied to the Ireland Fellows Programme more than once in the past.
The Selection Process
The fellowship selection is highly competitive and is conducted across three progressive stages:
- Preliminary Application: Initial screening and eligibility check.
- Detailed Application: Comprehensive submission of academic and professional history.
- Interviews: Final evaluation stage for shortlisted candidates.
Important Note: English language testing is mandatory for all successful admissions and visa processing, with no exceptions. Ensure you thoroughly review the specific entry requirements for your chosen institutions.
Application Deadline: July 26, 2026
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Eligible Country: Nigeria
Eligible Fields: Master’s programmes in Law, Human Rights, and Governance.
How to Apply
Review the official guidelines and initiate your Stage 1 application directly through the application portal: https://educationinireland.africa/rogercasementfellowship
For more information: https://www.ireland.ie/en/ireland-fellows-programme/applying-for-the-ireland-fellows-programme/ireland-fellows-roger-casement/
Disclaimer
Edfrica shares opportunities for informational purposes only. Results and funding outcomes are not guaranteed.
