Nabala Secondary School, the sole institution with a drum band in the Northern Division, has received a long-awaited upgrade to its musical instruments after 16 years.
The $8,000 donation, which includes four single drums, one brass drum, and a set of four tenor drums, was made by the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North committee.
Principal Epi Raikivi expressed excitement and gratitude on behalf of the 14-member band, which consists of hostel students from Years Nine to 13 hailing from 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,” Mr. Raikivi stated. He also recognized the efforts of Master Seru Tuidravutu, who has been with the band since 2012 and sought help from the festival committee.
“The band has been a part of the festival entertainment group for five years,” Mr. Raikivi added. Despite the resignation of the band’s teacher earlier this year, his leadership was crucial in acquiring the much-needed equipment.
The school is situated about 33 kilometers from Labasa Town. The band, wearing light blue and navy blue uniforms, regularly supports other schools, organizations, and community events through their performances.
Zaheen Ibrahim, president of the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North Committee, emphasized the festival’s commitment to community and music education. “This donation underscores our dedication to community development, skill enhancement, and support for music education,” Ms. Ibrahim remarked. She noted that the festival had previously donated $5,000 worth of equipment last year, with an additional $3,000 worth in this recent contribution as part of their long-term commitment.