Name: Devraj Praja
Date of Birth: May 30, 2004
Hometown: Rapti Rural Municipality, Chitwan
Background: Marginalized Chepang community, farming family, limited financial resources
Current Status: Completed Grade 10 and CTEVT-certified training in House Wiring
Early Life and Challenges
Born into a large farming family in Rapti Rural Municipality, Chitwan, Devraj Praja’s early life was shaped by financial hardship. His parents, along with his three sisters and one brother, relied on agriculture to make a living. Although he was born in Chitwan, Devraj’s early education took place in Manahari, Makwanpur, where he stayed with his maternal uncle. Later, he lived in a children’s home operated by his maternal aunt to continue his studies up to Grade 9.
Devraj loved dancing and found joy in farming, but he strongly believed that “education alone is not enough; one must also acquire practical skills.” After failing Grade 9 in a local school in Manahari, he began to search for an educational environment that offered both academic and skill-based learning.
The Turning Point: Discovering Shikharapur and Bottle House
It was through a relative that Devraj first heard about Shikharapur and the Bottle House—a place where students not only studied but also lived, learned, and grew with life skills.
“I remember the day I arrived at Shikharapur. I felt hopeful. It was the first time I saw a school where both practical skills and academic learning were equally respected,” says Devraj.
With support from his relatives, he enrolled in the Shikharapur CLC, a ONGD-FNEL partner organization in Nepal and began a transformative journey—one that would test his perseverance but also lead him to new achievements.
Learning, Failing, and Rising Again
Devraj faced academic difficulties at first. He couldn’t pass the regular Grade 10 exams, but he refused to give up. Through continued encouragement from the teachers and staff, he prepared with more dedication.
“I studied day and night and didn’t give up after failing twice. On the third attempt, I finally passed. That moment gave me the confidence that I can move forward in life.”
Alongside his studies, Devraj took part in practical trainings—gaining knowledge in modern agriculture, basic computer skills, and electric house wiring. He successfully completed a three-month CTEVT-certified electrical training course supported by the Nepal Government, facilitated through Shikharapur.
A New Chapter: Higher Education and Self-Reliance
Now, Devraj has returned to Chitwan, where he is preparing to join Grade 11. With a secondary education certificate and marketable technical skills, he feels ready for the next stage of life.
“It was hard for me because I came from a poor educational background. But I am proud—I have passed Grade 10, learned valuable life skills, and I’m confident I can study further and earn for my living too,” Devraj shares with a smile.
Thank You
Devraj’s journey is a reflection of resilience, opportunity, and growth. His story would not have been possible without the support of Shikharapur Community Learning Center, the ONGD-FNEL Luxembourg, and all the dedicated teachers and staff who believed in him.
“Thank you, Shikharapur. Thank you, ONGD-FNEL. Because of you, I didn’t just receive an education—I found a purpose.”
Case Study by:
Lalita Lamichhane, Field Coordinator, SCLC