Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution featuring a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years.
The $8,000 contribution, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, was given by the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
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 and hails from 11 different villages.
Mr. Raikivi noted that the Fiji Police Force had previously donated a drum set to the school in 2008, and since that time, the school had been repairing and reusing it. He also recognized Master Seru Tuidravutu, a long-serving band member since 2012, for his significant efforts in reaching out to the festival committee for help.
“The band has been part of the festival entertainment for five years,” he added. Although the band’s teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership played a crucial role in obtaining the new 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 through their performances.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to community and music education. “This donation highlights our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ms. Ibrahim stated.
She also mentioned that the festival had previously provided $5,000 worth of equipment last year, in addition to the latest $3,000 worth of equipment, as part of their ongoing commitment to support the school.