Nabala Secondary School, the only institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has received a long-awaited upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years. The Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee donated $8,000, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and one set of four tenor drums.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed excitement and gratitude on behalf of the school’s 14-member band, made up of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 across 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,” stated Mr. Raikivi. He also recognized the efforts of Master Seru Tuidravutu, who has been with the band since 2012 and sought support from the festival committee.
“The band has been part of the festival entertainment group for five years,” he added, noting that despite the resignation of their teacher earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in obtaining the required equipment.
Nabala Secondary School is situated about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town. The band, dressed in light blue and navy uniforms, regularly 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 community development and music education. “This donation underscores our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” she said, adding that the festival had previously provided $5,000 worth of equipment last year, with an additional $3,000 worth in this latest donation as part of their ongoing commitment.