Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution in the Northern Division with a drum band, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years. The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee donated $8,000 worth of new instruments, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums.
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 villages. “In 2008, the Fiji Police Force donated their drum set to our school, and since then, we have been repairing and reusing it,” Mr. Raikivi stated. He also praised Master Seru Tuidravutu’s efforts, who has been with the band since 2012 and successfully sought help from the festival committee.
Mr. Raikivi noted that the band has participated in the festival’s entertainment lineup for the past five years. Although the teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership played a crucial role in obtaining the essential equipment.
Located about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band frequently supports performances for other schools, organizations, and community events, donning light blue and navy blue uniforms.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s dedication to community engagement and music education. She stated, “This donation underscores our commitment to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education.” Last year, the festival had provided $5,000 worth of equipment, with an additional $3,000 in this recent donation as part of their ongoing support.