Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution in the Northern Division with a drum band, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after a wait of 16 years.
The improvement comes through an $8,000 donation from the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed both excitement and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, made up of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 who hail from 11 different villages.
Raikivi noted that in 2008, the Fiji Police Force had previously donated a drum set to the school, which the band had been maintaining and utilizing since then. He acknowledged Master Seru Tuidravutu’s significant contribution, who had been involved with the band since 2012 and sought out support from the festival committee.
For the past five years, the band has participated in the festival’s entertainment group. Although the teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in acquiring this essential equipment.
Located around 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, often 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 fostering community and music education. She stated, “This donation underscores our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education.”
Ibrahim also mentioned that the festival had previously provided $5,000 worth of equipment last year, along with an additional $3,000 this time as part of their ongoing efforts.