Yayasan SHEEP Indonesia (YSI) organized the Gender-sensitive WASH and Shelter Assistance for Vulnerable Communities in Aceh (GWS Aceh) Project Preparation Workshop on 9 to 10 June 2026 in Yogyakarta. The workshop brought together 27 participants, including members of the Board, Coordinators, commission and bureau staff, and the Project Management Team.

The workshop aimed to establish a shared understanding of the project's objectives, approach, targets, and implementation mechanisms. It also sought to strengthen the team's capacity to manage the project effectively, accountably, and in line with the established performance indicators.

The GWS Aceh Project was developed in response to the severe flooding that affected Aceh Tamiang Regency in late 2025. Assessments revealed extensive damage to houses, water supply and sanitation facilities, educational institutions, and other public infrastructure. During the transition from emergency response to recovery, communities continued to face limited access to clean water, adequate sanitation, and safe shelter.

Throughout the workshop, participants explored the project's implementation framework for Balingkarang, Pematang Durian, Juar, and Sulum Villages in Sekerak Subdistrict. The WASH component focuses on restoring access to safe water, improving inclusive and hygienic sanitation services, and promoting healthy hygiene practices. The shelter component provides material assistance to improve the safety and privacy of temporary shelters, particularly for women and other vulnerable groups.

Participants also reviewed the assessment findings, community social conditions, vulnerabilities of affected groups, and contextual factors that could influence project implementation. These discussions enabled the team to develop strategies that respond effectively to community needs and field realities.

In addition to technical capacity building, the workshop covered humanitarian principles, the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS), safeguarding, Protection from Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (PSEA), and community feedback and complaints mechanisms. These sessions reinforced the team's commitment to implementing the project in a safe, inclusive, and accountable manner.

The workshop resulted in a shared understanding of the project's goals and implementation strategy, clearer roles and responsibilities across organizational units, and an agreed implementation action plan. These outcomes provide a strong foundation for coordinated project implementation and support the recovery of flood affected communities in Aceh Tamiang Regency.