Are you a professional with leadership potential and a passion for sustainable development? The Kader Asmal Fellowship Programme offers an exceptional opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree in Ireland. This life-changing scholarship is designed for early-career Africans committed to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and building impactful careers in government, civil society, academia, and more.
Deadline: 25 July 2025
About the Fellowship
Funded by the Embassy of Ireland in South Africa under the broader Ireland-Africa Fellows Programme, the Kader Asmal Fellowship targets candidates from historically disadvantaged universities and promotes women in STEM and leadership. It enables selected candidates to study at Ireland’s top-tier Higher Education Institutions, gaining international experience and academic excellence.
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Two award strands are available:
- 12 General Awards across diverse areas such as:
- Environment, Climate Change, and Resilience
- Law, Human Rights, and Public Policy
- Health, Education, Sociology, Gender Studies
- Business, ICT, Tourism, and Food Science
- 2 Human Rights Law Awards at Trinity College Dublin for the prestigious LL.M in International and Comparative Law, coordinated by CASAC.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen and resident
- Hold an Honours-level degree (minimum GPA of 3.0 on 4.0 scale) obtained in 2014 or later
- Have at least two years of relevant work experience (including volunteering)
- Not already hold a Master’s degree
- Be applying for Master’s-level study in Ireland starting in 2026/27
- Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to the SDGs
- Select two eligible programmes from the Ireland-Africa Directory
- Meet academic and English language requirements
- Not have previously applied more than once
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Fellowship Benefits
The Kader Asmal Fellowship covers the following:
- University application fees and full tuition
- Exam fees and other academic costs
- Return airfare to Ireland
- Accommodation and monthly stipend
- Allowances for books, settling in, and study-related needs
- Student visa application costs
Note: This scholarship covers only the recipient—spouses or dependents are not included.
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How to Apply
Stage 1 applications must be submitted online only. Visit the official Canon Collins Trust application page and follow the provided application guidelines carefully.
Deadline: To be announced on the application portal. Do not contact the Irish Embassy regarding outcomes—Canon Collins will notify all applicants.
Conclusion
The Kader Asmal Fellowship is more than a scholarship—it’s a launchpad for South African change-makers ready to lead in academia, policy, and innovation. If you’re eager to contribute to a better future through a world-class education in Ireland, this opportunity is for you.
Empower your future through education
Tip
Be sure to tailor your application with clear examples of leadership, community engagement, and your commitment to the SDGs—these are key selection factors!
