In February 1905, a training school for Indigenous workers associated with the early Seventh Day Adventist Church was established in Buresala on Ovalau Island. Initially, the school only had ten students on its opening day, experiencing gradual growth that saw enrolment increase to 15 by the year’s end.
As the institution became more popular, the mission headquarters and printing press relocated from Suvavou to Buresala. However, this move was temporary, as the headquarters returned to Suvavou by 1912, where they have remained ever since. During the early 20th century, the Seventh Day Adventist Church made significant inroads in Viti Levu, converting many villagers to Christianity and establishing educational institutions in the process. One prominent area for Adventist education in Viti Levu was Colo West.
In 1924, one of the first schools in this area, now known as Navosa, was constructed in Draiba. The school faced challenges, including frequent disputes among landowners and community leaders, which prevented it from finding a permanent location for several decades. It began in Draiba before moving to Yavulevu, coinciding with the conversion of the local chief, Ratu Simione Nadurutalo. Under his influence, the school was relocated to Naroqoviri and later renamed Waiyala SDA Primary School.
Following Ratu Simione’s death, the school moved again to Senia. At this time, colonial offices were being established nearby, prompting discussions about relocating a government school from Nasaucoko. An opportunity arose when Mr. Naioko’s grandfather offered part of their land in Salaiba, leading to the school’s permanent establishment there in 1943. The name Salaiba means “road to Ba,” reflecting its historical significance as an access route during British colonial times.
In 1948, missionary teacher Nelson William Palmer arrived at Salaiba. An Australian by birth, Palmer was actively engaged in missionary work in Fiji after a significant educational journey. He established roots in the community and took steps to secure land for the school to guarantee its protection.
The school has continued to thrive, with generations of students passing through its doors. Many would complete their primary education before attending a central school for further studies. The philosophy of the Seventh Day Adventist Church emphasizes a holistic approach to education, which includes Bible teachings alongside traditional subjects. This model seeks to nurture well-rounded individuals, integrating spiritual, physical, intellectual, and social-emotional development.
Recently, the Nelson Palmer SDA Primary School celebrated its 100th anniversary with an event that attracted former students, teachers, and pastors from across the country and abroad. The celebration included a fundraising effort to build a new classroom block, raising over $36,000.
The two longest-serving ex-students were honored during the event, while others received centennial pins. Among the attendees was 93-year-old Lesayani Lewavaro, who shared memories of her time at the school, including her experiences with Pastor Palmer. Church president Pastor Nasoni Lutunaliwa reflected on the invaluable influence of Nelson Palmer in shaping the lives of students over the past century, thanking the community for their dedication to the school.