Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally upgraded its musical equipment after 16 years of waiting. The $8,000 donation includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, generously provided 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 includes hostel students from Years Nine to 13, representing 11 villages. Raikivi noted that the Fiji Police Force had donated a drum set to the school in 2008, but since then, it had been repaired and reused.
He acknowledged Master Seru Tuidravutu, who has been with the band since 2012 and played a crucial role in securing this equipment from the festival committee. “The band has been a part of the festival entertainment group for five years,” Raikivi remarked. Despite the recent resignation of the band’s teacher, his guidance was vital in obtaining the much-needed musical gear.
Located approximately 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, frequently performs at events for other schools and community organizations.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to supporting community development and music education. “This donation highlights our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ibrahim stated. She also mentioned that the festival had provided $5,000 worth of equipment last year and an additional $3,000 in their latest contribution, reflecting their long-term commitment to music programs.