Nabala Secondary School, which is known for having the only drum band in the Northern Division, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after a wait of 16 years. The $8,000 donation, provided by the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee, includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed his gratitude and excitement on behalf of the school’s 14-member band, comprised of hostel students from Years Nine to 13, representing 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 noted. He also recognized Master Seru Tuidravutu, who has been with the band since 2012 and played a key role in securing support from the festival committee.
The band has participated in the festival’s entertainment lineup for five years, and despite a teacher’s resignation earlier this year, his leadership was pivotal in acquiring the new equipment. The school is situated about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town. The band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, regularly performs for other schools, organizations, and community events.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to supporting the community and music education. “This donation underscores our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ms. Ibrahim stated. She also mentioned that the festival donated $5,000 worth of equipment last year, followed by an additional $3,000 in this latest contribution, as part of their ongoing commitment to the school.