From herding goats to shepherding students

As a boy, BROTHER PAULOS MESMER tended his family’s livestock in Eritrea, since his parents had no intention of letting him go to school. But he was determined to be literate, even if it meant studying by moonlight. Later, he gave up the chance to study any course he wanted, to become a priest and a ‘humble teacher’, writes JECKONIA OTIENO.

“Sorry, but I cannot allow you to continue with your studies until you have paid the full fees.”