Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution featuring a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after a wait of 16 years.
The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee has donated $8,000 worth of gear, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and one set of four tenor drums.
Epi Raikivi, the principal of Nabala Secondary School, expressed his excitement and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 hailing from 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 acknowledged Master Seru Tuidravutu’s efforts, who has been with the band since 2012 and had sought help from the festival committee.
“The band has been part of the festival entertainment group for five years,” Mr. Raikivi added. Although the band’s teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership played a crucial role in securing the much-needed equipment.
Nabala Secondary School is located about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, and the band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, regularly supports other schools, organizations, and community events with their performances.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s dedication to community and music education. “This donation highlights our commitment to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ms. Ibrahim remarked.
She also noted that the festival had previously provided equipment worth $5,000 last year, followed by another $3,000 worth of equipment in this latest donation as part of their long-term commitment.