Jackline Timan hails from the humble Njoroi village in Loliondo, Ngorongoro District. Born into a Maasai family, her father, a retired primary school teacher, instilled in her the importance of education. However, the financial constraints of her family threatened to cut her educational journey short after primary school.
In her own words, Jackline recalls, “The only option left seemed to be marriage at a tender age, a common practice in my community. But I yearned for more. I yearned for education.”
A chance encounter with the Director from PWC changed the course of her life. “I shared my situation and aspirations with him,” Jackline says, “and this encounter changed my life forever. PWC decided to sponsor my education, from secondary school to college, and eventually university.”
Jackline pursued a Bachelor’s Degree of Arts with Education at the University of Dar es Salaam. “This opportunity not only broadened my horizons but also equipped me with the skills and knowledge to give back to my community,” she reflects.
Upon graduation, Jackline returned to her roots as a primary school teacher at Ololosokwan Primary School, located in the very village where she was born. “Being a teacher in my hometown was more than just a job; it was an opportunity to give back to my community,” she shares.
Currently, Jackline serves as the Ward Education Officer at Ololosokwan village. Jackline’s work has had a profound impact on her community. As a Ward Education Officer, she has been instrumental in ensuring that hundreds of Maasai children, especially girls, receive an education. This is particularly significant given that girls have historically been neglected by the community in terms of education.
Her efforts have led to a shift in the community’s perspective towards education, particularly for girls. She has shown that girls, too, can excel in academics and contribute positively to the community. This has led to an increase in the number of Maasai girls attending school, thereby breaking the cycle of early marriages.
“In my role, I have been instrumental in ensuring that hundreds of Maasai children, especially girls who have historically been neglected by the community, receive an education,” she proudly states. Reflecting on her journey, Jackline expresses her gratitude towards PWC for their sponsorship. “My dream came alive because of PWC. I thank them for sponsoring me,” she says.
Jackline Timan’s story is a testament to the transformative power of education. Her journey from a village girl to a Ward Education Officer is an inspiration to many, especially the young girls in her community. Through her work, she continues to change the narrative for the Maasai community, one child at a time. “In my administration, hundreds of Maasai kids went to school, especially girls, who were historically neglected by my community. I am proud to serve in this important position in my community.”