Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally received an upgrade to its musical equipment after 16 years. The school was gifted $8,000 worth of new instruments, which includes four single drums, a brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, courtesy of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed his enthusiasm and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Years Nine to 13, representing 11 villages. He noted that the Fiji Police Force had previously donated a drum set in 2008, which the school had been using and repairing ever since.
Raikivi also recognized the contributions of Master Seru Tuidravutu, who had been involved with the band since 2012 and played a vital role in obtaining the new equipment from the festival committee. The band has been a regular participant in the festival’s entertainment group for the last five years. Although Tuidravutu resigned earlier this year, his leadership was essential in securing this essential upgrade.
Situated about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band frequently performs in light blue and navy blue uniforms at various school, organizational, and community events.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s dedication to community and music education. She stated, “This donation reflects our commitment to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education.” Ibrahim also mentioned that last year’s donation included $5,000 worth of equipment, with the latest contribution adding $3,000 to their ongoing support.