In February 1905, a training school for indigenous workers of the early Seventh Day Adventist Church was established at Buresala on the island of Ovalau. Unlike today’s tertiary institutions, only ten students were present on the first day of classes. However, with patience and determination, enrollment began to grow, eventually reaching 15 students by the end of the first year.
As the training school gained popularity and space became limited, the mission headquarters, along with its printing press, moved from Suvavou to Buresala. This transition was temporary, as by 1912, the headquarters returned to Suvavou, where they have been located since.
In the early 20th century, the Seventh Day Adventist Church made significant strides in Christian conversions across the highland communities of Viti Levu, which led to the establishment of more schools. One notable area where Adventist education flourished was in Colo West, Viti Levu.
In 1924, one of the first schools in Colo West, now known as Navosa, was constructed in Draiba. However, due to ongoing disputes among landowners and community leaders, the school struggled to find a permanent location for several decades. Onisimo Naioko from Sawene village noted that the school initially started in Draiba before relocating to Yavulevu.
Under the influence of the converted Christian chief, Tui Noikoro, Ratu Simione Nadurutalo, the school later moved from Yavulevu to Naroqoviri. After establishing the school on Ratu Simione’s land, it was named Waiyala SDA Primary School. Following Ratu Simione’s passing, the school moved again, this time to Senia, as colonial offices began to form nearby.
In 1943, the school found its permanent home in Salaiba, named for the access road that linked the area to neighboring highland villages during British colonial times. In 1948, missionary teacher Nelson William Palmer arrived in Salaiba, marking a significant chapter in the school’s history.
Pastor Nelson Palmer, an Australian career pastor and missionary, dedicated himself to education and service in the SDA Church from 1941 until 1984. His background included studying at Avondale College and Longburn Adventist College, where he met and married Betty Maud Gorrell. After various appointments, the Palmers arrived in Fiji in 1948, where Palmer worked in the highlands for eight years and was instrumental in securing land for the school to ensure its safety.
Mr. Naioko, who attended the school during this time, recalled the challenges students faced but highlighted the dedication of parents who valued Adventist education. The SDA Church promotes a distinct educational philosophy grounded in biblical teachings, emphasizing comprehensive development—physical, social, intellectual, and spiritual.
Recently, Nelson Palmer SDA Primary School in Salaiba celebrated its 100th anniversary, welcoming hundreds of alumni, former educators, and pastors for a weekend of fellowship and fundraising to support the construction of a new classroom block. The event raised over $36,000.
Two of the school’s oldest former students, Sakiusa Sugumai and Lesayani Lewavaro, were present to commemorate the anniversary, with Sugumai sending best wishes from afar. At 93, Lesayani reflected warmly on her experiences in the school, particularly her memories of Pastor Palmer and his love for farming.
Pastor Nasoni Lutunaliwa, the current church president, expressed gratitude for the lasting impact of Nelson Palmer on students over the past century, recognizing the contributions of teachers and church members who served from 1924 to 2024. The celebration honored the rich history while promoting a spirit of unity within the community.