Nabala Secondary School, the only school with a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years. The $8,000 donation includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, provided by the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
Excitement and gratitude were expressed by the school’s principal, Epi Raikivi, on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Years Nine to 13, representing 11 villages. Mr. Raikivi noted that since receiving a drum set from the Fiji Police Force in 2008, the school had been repairing and using the same equipment.
He acknowledged the contributions of Master Seru Tuidravutu, who has been with the band since 2012 and helped seek assistance from the festival committee. The band has participated in the festival entertainment group for the past five years, and despite the resignation of their teacher earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in obtaining the new equipment.
Located about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, dressed in light blue and navy uniforms, often 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 community and music education, stating that the donation demonstrates their dedication to community development and skill enhancement. She also mentioned that the festival had previously donated $5,000 worth of equipment last year, adding another $3,000 in this latest contribution as part of their long-term support.