The SHIFT Program Team of Sumba Cendekia Bestari (SCB) had recently participated in two important events organized by Save the Children at the Sumba Learning Hub. Both events were Safeguarding Training and SHIFT Kick-Off meeting held on Monday March 11^th to Tuesday, March 12^th 2024 and on Wednesday, March 13^th to Friday, 15^th 2024 respectively. Safeguarding is a critical aspect of any organization, particularly those working with vulnerable populations or handling sensitive information. Safeguarding training not only educates employees on relevant policies and procedures but also reinforces a culture of vigilance and responsibility.

Through the Safeguarding training, the SHIFT Program Team gained an understanding of the importance of implementing Safeguarding policies in the Program implementation process. Key points learned in the training included basic Safeguarding principles, Child Safeguarding policies, safe programming and risk assessment processes, gender equality and gender-based violence policies, Protection from sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment (PSEAH) policies, anti-harassment and bullying policies, and personal safety and security induction. Through this training, the SHIFT program team received comprehensive training on relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies related to safeguarding, reporting procedures, legal obligations in cases of suspected abuse or misconduct, and empowering staff to respond appropriately and take necessary action to protect vulnerable individuals.

Following the Safeguarding training, the SHIFT Kick-off meeting was held as part of the training and induction activities for the SHIFT program team. Through this event, the team could understand the culture, values, and goals of Save the Children as well as the expectations for the SHIFT Program. Additionally, as part of the induction, the SHIFT Program team gained a deep understanding of the roles, responsibilities, and performance expectations of each position. Save the Children also equipped team members with the knowledge and tools necessary to excel in their roles.