Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has recently received a long-awaited upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years.
The donation, amounting to $8,000, includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, courtesy of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed his excitement and gratitude on behalf of the school’s 14-member band, composed of hostel students from Years Nine to 13, representing 11 different villages.
Mr. Raikivi noted, “In 2008, the Fiji Police Force donated their drum set to our school, and since then, we have been repairing and reusing it.” He acknowledged Master Seru Tuidravutu’s efforts in securing assistance from the festival committee; Tuidravutu had been with the band since 2012.
“The band has been a part of the festival entertainment group for five years,” Mr. Raikivi added. Although the teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in obtaining the much-needed equipment.
Located about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, wearing light blue and navy blue uniforms, often performs at various schools, organizations, and community events.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to community engagement and music education. “This donation underscores our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ms. Ibrahim stated.
She also mentioned that the festival had previously contributed $5,000 worth of equipment last year, along with an additional $3,000 in their latest contribution as part of their ongoing commitment.