Deva, 14, is the younger of two. He has an older sister who dropped out of school after finishing junior high school due to their poverty. Deva would have to follow his sister’s footsteps next year if he doesn’t get sponsored.

Deva just finished Jr High, grade 9, and is due to start High School this month. High School comes with much higher costs – entrance fees, monthly costs, more uniforms, and other mandatory expenses. If kids can’t pay, they’re often publicly embarrassed by being asked for the money.

Both of his parents are laborers who earn less than the minimum wage. They also have debt to the bank around $360 to afford their living expenses.

Deva helps his parents raise the cows that are entrusted by the owner to them. They will get half of the profit later from the owner upon selling the cows. Deva is tasked to forage grass for the cows and feeding them.