Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has received much-awaited updates to its musical equipment after a span of 16 years.
The upgrade, valued at $8,000, includes the donation of four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums from the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed his excitement and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 representing 11 different villages. “In 2008, the Fiji Police Force generously donated a drum set to our school, and since then, we have been continually repairing and reusing it,” Mr. Raikivi stated.
He acknowledged Master Seru Tuidravutu, who has been with the band since 2012 and played a key role in seeking support from the festival committee. “The band has actively participated in the festival entertainment for five years,” he added. Despite the resignation of their teacher earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in obtaining the much-needed equipment.
Located approximately 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, regularly performs at events hosted by other schools, organizations, and community gatherings.
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 reinforces our focus on community development, skill enhancement, and promoting music education,” Ms. Ibrahim stated. She also noted that the festival had previously donated $5,000 worth of equipment last year, and this latest contribution of $3,000 is part of their ongoing commitment.