Nabala Secondary School, the only institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has received an eagerly anticipated upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years. The $8,000 donation, which comprises four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, was contributed by the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
Epi Raikivi, the principal of Nabala Secondary School, expressed enthusiasm and appreciation for the upgrade on behalf of the 14-member band, made up of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 hailing from 11 different 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 remarked.
He also recognized the contributions of Master Seru Tuidravutu, who had been involved with the band since 2012 and had actively sought help from the festival committee. “The band has been a part of the festival entertainment group for five years,” Mr. Raikivi noted. Although a teacher resigned earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in obtaining the much-needed equipment.
Located roughly 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, dressed in light blue and navy blue uniforms, regularly performs at various schools, organizations, and community events. Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to music education and community development. “This donation highlights our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ms. Ibrahim stated.
Additionally, she mentioned that the festival had previously donated $5,000 worth of equipment last year, along with another $3,000 worth of equipment in this recent donation, reflecting their long-term commitment to supporting local music initiatives.