Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally upgraded its musical equipment after a 16-year wait. The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee generously donated $8,000 worth of equipment, which comprises four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude on behalf of the school’s 14-member band, consisting of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 and hailing from 11 villages. Mr. Raikivi noted that since receiving a drum set from the Fiji Police Force in 2008, the school has continuously repaired and reused the same equipment.
He also recognized Master Seru Tuidravutu’s contributions, who has been part of the band since 2012 and played a crucial role in obtaining assistance from the festival committee. Under his guidance, the band has participated in the festival’s entertainment lineup for five years, even though he resigned earlier this year.
Located about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, frequently performs to support other schools, organizations, and community events.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to community and music education. Ms. Ibrahim pointed out that this latest donation reflects their ongoing dedication to community development and enhancement of music education, building on a previous $5,000 contribution made last year, plus an additional $3,000 worth of equipment in this current donation.