Deadline: 26-Jul-2026
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme provides fully funded master’s degree opportunities in engineering at the University of Galway for eligible professionals from Zambia. The fellowship supports leadership development, advanced engineering education, and capacity building while preparing participants to contribute to Zambia’s sustainable development and strengthen partnerships with Ireland.
Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme 2027/2028
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme offers fully funded master’s scholarships for Zambian engineers to pursue advanced engineering studies at the University of Galway, Ireland.
The programme forms part of the Ireland Fellows Programme and aims to develop highly skilled engineering professionals who can contribute to infrastructure development, innovation, sustainable growth, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Zambia.
Overview
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme supports qualified engineering professionals by providing access to internationally recognized postgraduate education in Ireland.
The fellowship aims to:
- Develop future engineering leaders.
- Strengthen Zambia’s engineering capacity.
- Promote sustainable infrastructure and technological innovation.
- Support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Foster long-term partnerships between Zambia and Ireland.
- Enhance technical and professional expertise.
Purpose of the Fellowship
The programme seeks to:
- Build advanced engineering knowledge and skills.
- Support professional and leadership development.
- Strengthen engineering capacity within Zambia.
- Promote sustainable infrastructure development.
- Encourage innovation and technical excellence.
- Develop future leaders in engineering.
- Strengthen educational and professional links between Ireland and Zambia.
Eligible Master’s Programmes
Applicants must select two eligible master’s programmes offered by the University of Galway.
Eligible programmes include:
- Civil Engineering
- Energy Systems Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical & Electronic Engineering
- Marine and Freshwater Resources Management
These programmes are designed to strengthen technical expertise and prepare professionals for leadership roles within the engineering sector.
Funding Information
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship is fully funded through the Ireland Fellows Programme.
The fellowship covers:
- Full academic tuition fees
- Visa application fees
- Medical insurance
- Travel insurance
- Economy-class return airfare
- Irish residence permit fee
- Settling-in allowance
- Completion and departure allowance
- Monthly living stipend of €700 (subject to review)
- Fully funded accommodation during Trimesters 1 and 2
- Accommodation stipend of €800–€1,000 per month during Trimester 3 (subject to review and study location)
Fellowship Benefits
Participants receive:
- Fully funded master’s education
- International engineering qualification
- Leadership development opportunities
- Professional networking
- Exposure to advanced engineering research and innovation
- Career advancement opportunities
- Participation in the Ireland Fellows alumni network
- Opportunity to contribute to Zambia’s long-term development
Who is Eligible?
Applicants must:
- Be a resident national of Zambia.
- Have at least three years of substantial work experience relevant to their chosen engineering field.
- Be a member of the Engineering Institution of Zambia (EIZ).
- Hold a degree in Engineering or a closely related discipline with Merit or higher from a recognized institution.
- Meet the academic admission requirements of the selected programme.
- Meet the required English language proficiency requirements.
- Select two eligible engineering master’s programmes.
- Demonstrate leadership potential.
- Show commitment to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Zambia.
- Demonstrate willingness to strengthen relations between Zambia and Ireland.
- Be available to begin studies during the 2027/2028 academic year.
Applicants must not:
- Already hold a master’s degree or higher qualification.
- Be currently pursuing a master’s programme.
- Have applied for the programme more than once previously.
How the Fellowship Works (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Review all eligibility requirements, including nationality, professional experience, Engineering Institution of Zambia membership, and academic qualifications.
Step 2: Select Eligible Master’s Programmes
Choose two engineering programmes offered by the University of Galway that align with your education and career objectives.
Step 3: Prepare Application Documents
Gather all required documentation, including:
- Degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Employment records
- Engineering Institution of Zambia membership evidence
- English language documentation (if required)
- Supporting application materials
Step 4: Submit the Fellowship Application
Complete the fellowship application and submit all required documents before the official deadline.
Step 5: Assessment Process
Applications are evaluated based on:
- Academic achievement
- Professional experience
- Leadership potential
- Engineering background
- Commitment to sustainable development
- Programme suitability
Step 6: Begin Master’s Studies
Successful applicants commence their master’s studies at the University of Galway during the 2027/2028 academic year with full fellowship support.
Why It Matters
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme helps:
- Strengthen Zambia’s engineering workforce.
- Build technical leadership capacity.
- Support sustainable infrastructure development.
- Promote engineering innovation.
- Advance the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Enhance international academic collaboration.
- Strengthen long-term cooperation between Zambia and Ireland.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying without Engineering Institution of Zambia membership.
- Selecting programmes outside the eligible list.
- Not meeting the required academic standard.
- Applying without sufficient engineering work experience.
- Failing to meet English language admission requirements.
- Submitting incomplete supporting documents.
- Applying after already earning or pursuing a master’s degree.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Select programmes that closely match your engineering experience.
- Demonstrate measurable professional achievements.
- Highlight leadership experience.
- Explain how your studies will contribute to Zambia’s development.
- Show commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals.
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
- Clearly explain your long-term professional goals.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme?
It is a fully funded master’s fellowship that supports engineering professionals from Zambia to study selected engineering programmes at the University of Galway in Ireland.
2. Which engineering programmes are available?
Eligible programmes include Civil Engineering, Energy Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering, and Marine and Freshwater Resources Management.
3. What expenses are covered?
The fellowship covers tuition fees, visa costs, insurance, return flights, residence permit fees, accommodation, living stipend, settling-in allowance, and completion allowance.
4. Who is eligible to apply?
Resident Zambian nationals with at least three years of relevant engineering work experience, membership in the Engineering Institution of Zambia, and an eligible engineering degree may apply.
5. How many programmes must applicants select?
Applicants must select two eligible master’s programmes offered by the University of Galway.
6. Can applicants who already hold a master’s degree apply?
No. Applicants who already hold or are currently pursuing a master’s degree are not eligible.
7. When does the fellowship begin?
Successful applicants will begin their studies during the 2027/2028 academic year in Ireland.
Conclusion
The Frank Ferguson Fellowship Programme provides an outstanding opportunity for engineering professionals from Zambia to obtain a fully funded master’s degree at the University of Galway. By combining advanced technical education, leadership development, and comprehensive financial support, the fellowship strengthens Zambia’s engineering capacity while fostering sustainable development and long-term collaboration between Zambia and Ireland.
For more information, visit Ireland Fellows Programme.
