50 Years of Irish Fellowship Programme: Meet Our 2023-2024 Ireland Fellows from Tanzania and Burundi

October 2024 marked the 50th Anniversary of Irish Aid and the 50th Anniversary of the Irish Fellowship Programme. More than 2,000 Ireland Fellows have studied in Ireland over the past 50 years as part of our Fellowship Programme.

The Ireland Fellows Programme is a fully-funded scholarship opportunity open to professionals from eligible developing countries to study at Master’s level in Ireland’s world-renowned Higher Education Institutions, offered by the Irish Government.

The Ireland Fellows Programme aims to nurture future leaders and develop in-country capacity to achieve national Sustainable Development Goals. In Tanzania, the programme has supported hundreds of individuals over the past 45 years to further their education and professional careers.

In 2023, sixteen Ireland Fellows from Tanzania and Burundi went to Ireland to pursue Master’s degrees. Here, they share their experiences of their time in Ireland studying in the areas of Public Health, Business, Climate, Gender and Human Rights; and how they intend to contribute to their communities after the completion of their studies.

“My name is Angela Elipokea, an Ireland Fellow at University College Cork pursuing a Master’s in Public Health.

This has been a life changing experience year in terms of my career and academics. The Irish culture has been most welcoming, and I have made lifetime friendships throughout my course.

My most memorable moment was my very interactive and enriching program that has enhanced my skills in a more practical way. The ICOS organized events have made my stay in Ireland memorable with the opportunity to connect with my other fellows from all over the world. Lately the summer weather has been nice and we enjoy exploring the beautiful landscapes of Ireland.

I look forward to use the skills I have obtained in improving public health in my line of work, alongside the Sustainable Development Goals.”

“My name is Générose Ndayisenga from Burundi, currently studying at Maynooth University, taking a Masters in International Peacebuilding, Security and Development Practice.

The IFP has been a wonderful opportunity for me to broaden my perspectives on international peacebuilding, security and development and learn from knowledgeable and inspiring people from diverse backgrounds and countries.

I enjoyed engaging in simulation sessions on negotiation and mediation with top professionals from EU missions and security experts. I gained an excellent grounding in the art of negotiation and mediation.

"My name is John Mtei, an Ireland Fellow at Galway University, undertaking a Masters in Health Promotion.

My experience in Ireland has been one of the best years of my life; from the culture to the quality of education to life in general. I experienced personal, academic and career growth through networking with peers and faculties.

My most memorable moment was the fantastic quality of education and infrastructure in my first classroom attendance; the way classrooms were equipped and how the lectures were given.

I look forward to exciting new career opportunities now that I have the skills and international exposure to positively impact the world. I will become a good ambassador for the IFP and Ireland.”

"My name is Elina Musa, an architectural designer pursuing a Master's in Geography, Spatial Justice at Maynooth University.

My experience so far has been a splendid blend of surprises and new experiences within the degree course and in extra-curricular activities. These experiences have cultivated a newfound confidence, also providing the opportunity to connect with individuals from different cultural backgrounds, broadening my horizons and allowing me to form meaningful connections.

My most memorable moment has been my participation in a module known as Public Engagement. This module allowed me to gain a deeper understanding of Irish life, gaining insight on the food practices and challenges faced by Irish communities, highlighting the importance of empowering communities and prioritizing their needs.

I am excited to use the knowledge I have gained through my studies to address spatial and architectural issues in Tanzania, placing community and environment well-being at the forefront.”

"My name is Leah Msomba, studying a MSc in Food Science at the University College Cork.

My experience in the Ireland Fellows Programme so far has been incredibly rewarding. I've had the opportunity to engage with diverse perspectives, develop new skills, and make meaningful connections with fellow participants. Overall, it has been a valuable and enriching experience for personal and professional growth, career-wise I will never be the same again at the end of this programme.

One of my favourite memories was celebrating St. Patrick's Day with my fellow Food Science Master's students. The celebrations and camaraderie made me feel part of the group and allowed me to immerse myself in Irish culture. Additionally, the ICOS seminar day provided valuable global insights.

Being in a class with students from diverse countries was enriching. It allowed me to learn from their unique backgrounds and build strong connections. The teaching staff were supportive and compassionate, ensuring we had all the necessary resources to excel.

After completing my course, I look forward to utilizing my Master's degree in Food Science to engage in research and development initiatives actively focused on creating sustainability, improving food production methods, and addressing issues related to food and its accessibility. I aim to collaborate with governmental and non-governmental organizations to implement innovative strategies for enhancing food security and promoting sustainable systems.”

"My name is Renatha Seleman, pursuing a Master’s in International Human Rights and Public Policy at the University College Cork.

The experience has been absolutely good and full of new enlightenment every day. Being in a class full of diversity was so meaningful. This program is indeed a stepping-stone in advancing my career on Human Rights capturing both national and international perspectives of it.

Further, the scholarship team from the Embassy of Ireland in Tanzania and ICOS have been so supportive to ensure everything runs smoothly for all the fellows. Every day at University College Cork in Ireland was special to me.

The celebration of St. Patrick ’s Day stood out as my most memorable moment during my fellowship in Ireland. The event was full of cultural diversity and through it, I learned that the world is a better place when we embrace diversity in whatever form.

I look forward to putting into practice the knowledge tapped from my course in real-world Human Rights issues in through policy influence, advocacy and meaningful community engagement to strengthen the Human Rights culture in Tanzania.”

"My name is Patricia Mhekwa. I pursued and completed the Master of Business programme at South East Technological University. I was awarded the Ireland Fellowship in 2022. I am currently a Postgraduate Research Student at South East Technological University.

My study experience in Ireland was enlightening and transformative given that my coursework involved working on real-life case studies and projects that enhanced my skills in critical thinking and project management.

The highlights during my time studying for my Master’s programme include the creative and interactive lectures, the team working culture and opportunities to network at university and corporate events.

I enjoyed the liveliness of events that brought people together such as the conferences and events that were organized by companies and universities which enhanced my networking skills.

The Master of Business programme empowered me to gain relevant and practical insights in sustainable business management and it has enhanced my passion and interest in providing strategic support on impact-driven projects. Moreover, the IAFP program has provided with career advancing opportunities that have developed my skills in networking, leadership and project management.

I am applying the knowledge and skills gained from the course towards my research programme. Additionally, I am also applying the acquired knowledge and skills from the course in providing expertise in strategy development at an Education Technology company based in Tanzania which aims to empower youth with digital skills.”

Applications for the 2024-2025 Ireland Fellows Programme are now closed, but if you are interested in applying next year, please keep an eye on our website!