Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has finally upgraded its musical equipment after 16 years. The school received an $8,000 donation from the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed his excitement and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Years Nine to 13, representing 11 villages. Mr. Raikivi noted that the Fiji Police Force had donated a drum set to the school in 2008, and the school had been repairing and reusing it since then.
He also recognized Master Seru Tuidravutu, who had been part of the band since 2012 and played a key role in seeking help from the festival committee. The band has participated in the festival’s entertainment lineup for the past five years. Though Tuidravutu resigned earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in obtaining the new equipment.
Located about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town, the band, sporting light blue and navy blue uniforms, regularly performs at various schools, organizations, and community events. Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee President Zaheen Ibrahim emphasized the festival’s commitment to community development and music education.
“This donation demonstrates our dedication to fostering the community, enhancing skills, and supporting music education,” Ms. Ibrahim stated. She also mentioned that the festival had previously donated $5,000 worth of equipment last year and included an additional $3,000 worth in this recent contribution as part of their long-term commitment.