Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution in the Northern Division with a drum band, has received a long-awaited upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years. The school’s band received an $8,000 donation from the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and one set of four tenor drums.
Epi Raikivi, the principal of Nabala Secondary School, expressed excitement and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Year Nine to Year Thirteen and hails 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 recognized Master Seru Tuidravutu’s efforts, who has been with the band since 2012 and sought assistance from the festival committee. Mr. Raikivi noted, “The band has been a part of the festival entertainment group for five years.” Although the teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership played a vital role in obtaining the much-needed equipment.
Located approximately 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, 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 commitment to community and music education. She remarked, “This donation underscores our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education.” Ms. Ibrahim mentioned that the festival had previously provided $5,000 worth of equipment last year and added $3,000 worth of equipment in this latest donation as part of their long-term commitment.