Here are the program benefits of the Ireland Fellows Program:

1. *Full Scholarship*: The award covers all program fees, ensuring a cost-free education.
2. *Flights*: Round-trip airfare from your home country to Ireland is included.
3. *Accommodation*: The program covers the cost of living arrangements for the duration of your stay.
4. *Living Costs*: A stipend is provided to support your daily expenses while studying in Ireland.
5. *Master's Level Education*: Pursue a prestigious master's degree at an Irish higher education institution.
6. *Programme Duration*: Study for 10-16 months, depending on the programme, starting in August or September.
7. *Leadership Development*: Enhance your leadership skills and potential.
8. *Capacity Building*: Contribute to capacity building in your home country.
9. *Networking Opportunities*: Build relationships with professionals and institutions in Ireland and globally.
10. *Global Alumni Network*: Join a network of talented professionals with connections to Ireland.

Here are the eligibility criteria for the Ireland Fellows Program:

1. _Language Proficiency_: Demonstrated English language proficiency, with a minimum requirement of IELTS 6.5 (or equivalent)
2. _Academic Qualifications_: A bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution
3. _Work Experience_: A minimum of 2 years of relevant work experience
4. _Leadership Potential_: Demonstrated leadership skills and potential
5. _Country Eligibility_: Applicants must be from an eligible country
6. _Course Eligibility_: Applicants must be accepted to an eligible master's program in Ireland
7. _English Language Testing_: All applicants must take the Duolingo English Test (if selected after Stage 2) and IELTS exam (if shortlisted after Stage 3), unless they have a valid IELTS certificate from 2022 or later with the required score.
8. _Other Requirements_: Applicants must meet any additional requirements set by the Irish higher education institution they are applying to.

Note: Early preparation for the IELTS exam is strongly advised, even for native English speakers.

Here are the countries eligible for the Ireland Fellows Programme - Africa ¹:
- Angola
- Burundi
- Democratic Republic of the Congo
- Djibouti
- Eritrea
- Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)
- Ethiopia
- Ghana
- Kenya
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Malawi
- Mozambique
- Nigeria
- Rwanda
- Senegal
- Sierra Leone
- Somalia
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
- Zambia
- Zimbabwe
- Cabo Verde
- Comoros
- Guinea-Bissau
- Mauritius
- Seychelles
- Sao Tomé and Príncipe
- Namibia
- South Africa

Here is the application procedure for the Ireland Fellows Programme:

*Stage 1: Preliminary Application*

1. Review eligibility criteria and ensure you meet the requirements.
2. Complete the online preliminary application form, providing personal and academic information.
3. Submit the form by the designated deadline.

*Stage 2: Detailed Application*

1. If selected, you will be invited to submit a detailed application.
2. Provide additional information, including:
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
- Personal statement (outlining motivation, goals, and leadership potential)
- Two references (academic or professional)
3. Submit the detailed application by the designated deadline.

*Stage 3: Interviews*

1. If selected, you will be invited for an interview (online or in-person).
2. Prepare to discuss your application, goals, and leadership potential.
3. Interviews will be conducted by a panel of representatives from the Irish government and higher education institutions.

*Additional Requirements*

1. If shortlisted after the interview stage, you will be required to take an IELTS exam (unless you have a valid IELTS certificate from 2022 or later with the required score).
2. If selected, you will need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of acceptance from an Irish higher education institution.

*Important*

- Ensure you submit your application well in advance of the deadlines.
- Only complete applications will be considered.
- Applications will be reviewed and evaluated based on academic merit, leadership potential, and personal statement.

Please note that the application procedure may be subject to change, and it's always best to check the official website or consult with the Irish embassy or consulate in your country for the most up-to-date information.