In February 1905, the Seventh Day Adventist Church established a training school for indigenous workers at Buresala on Ovalau Island. Unlike modern tertiary institutions, the school started with just ten students on its first day. Over time, the student population grew, with an additional four students joining, leading to a total of 15 by the end of the first year. As the school became more popular and space became limited, the mission headquarters and printing press relocated from Suvavou to Buresala, although this arrangement was temporary, with the headquarters returning to Suvavou by 1912.
During the early 20th century, the SDA Church expanded its reach into Viti Levu’s highland communities as more individuals converted to Christianity, leading to the establishment of numerous schools. One significant area for Adventist education was Colo West in Viti Levu, where one of the first schools was built in 1924 in Draiba. However, due to frequent disputes among landowners and community leaders, the school struggled to establish a permanent location for several decades.
Onisimo Naioko, a resident of Sawene village, shared that the school initially operated in Draiba Village before moving to Yavulevu, coinciding with Tui Noikoro, Ratu Simione Nadurutalo’s conversion to Christianity. Ratu Simione eventually directed the move of the school to Naroqoviri and later to Senia due to developments in the area.
A permanent site was finally established in Salaiba in 1943, a name reflecting its historical significance in providing access routes during British colonial times. In 1948, missionary Nelson William Palmer arrived to support the school. Palmer was a dedicated pastor and educator, having served in various capacities since the start of his ministry in 1941. His life story includes training at multiple institutions, marrying Betty Maud Gorrell, and serving as a missionary in both Rarotonga and Fiji.
During his eight years in Navosa, Palmer requested the leasing of land for the school, which secured its current location of 11 acres. School alumnus Naioko remembers attending classes at the school from 1964 to 1970, highlighting the communal effort of parents in overcoming educational challenges during that era.
The philosophy of the SDA Church emphasizes holistic education, integrating spiritual, physical, and emotional aspects along with traditional academic subjects. This approach prepares students not only for citizenship but for a lifelong journey of personal development.
Recently, the school commemorated its 100th anniversary in Salaiba. The celebration drew numerous former students, teachers, and pastors for a weekend filled with activities to raise funds for a new classroom block. The event successfully raised over $36,000, and two of the oldest alumni, Sakiusa Sugumai and Lesayani Lewavaro, participated in unveiling a centennial monument, with individual honorees receiving commemorative pins.
Despite his absence, Sugumai sent heartfelt greetings. Lesayani, who shared memories of her time with Pastor Palmer, reflected on the positive influence he had on students, particularly through his agricultural interests. The church president, Pastor Nasoni Lutunaliwa, acknowledged the profound impact of Nelson Palmer’s legacy on students throughout the school’s century of existence, thanking those who served and contributed to its ongoing mission.