Nakauvadra High School marks history with first cadet parade as 250-plus students participate
More than 250 students from Nakauvadra High School in Rakiraki took part in the school’s inaugural cadet passing-out parade last week, a milestone the campus hopes will inspire a new generation of disciplined leaders. The event was led by parade commander and school headboy Jona Cavunisautu, who was praised by the Chief Guest, Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu, for his effective delegation and calm leadership under pressure.
In addressing the parade, Tudravu commended Cavunisautu, saying: “You stand tall on this ground and confidently issue commands to those under your command. You have shown a level of confidence that many don’t possess, not even adults. You rose to the occasion and I must salute you for the exceptional parade this morning.” He added that the cadets had etched their names in the school’s history by becoming the first cohort to parade in this format, and reminded students to maintain proper conduct within school premises: “Act your age in your behavior and conduct.”
Tudravu also paid tribute to the cadet corps, noting the hard work and discipline demonstrated by the students. The parade featured a ceremony of individual recognitions: Best Male Cadet Officer Apisalome Tuinakauvadra; Best Female Cadet Officer Mere Tinai Radinidaga; Best Detachment Male Award went to Detachment Six; Best Detachment Female Award to Detachment Two; Best Male Officer Christopher Withs; Best Female Officer Mereseini Adi Leuvanua; and Special Instructors Award to Mosese Iqanibogi. Cavunisautu himself received the Baton of Honour, sealing his role as the parade’s outstanding leader.
This launch at Nakauvadra High School fits into a broader pattern across Fiji, where cadet programs are increasingly used to build discipline, teamwork, and leadership among students. Earlier parades at other schools—such as Suva Grammar School and Lomary Secondary School—have showcased similar awards and strong endorsements from senior officials, including the Ministry of Education and senior officers from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces. These events underscore a national emphasis on character development alongside academics, with leaders stressing that the “champion edge” comes from attitude and disciplined living.
Summary and outlook
The Nakauvadra High School parade not only celebrates a historic milestone for the Rakiraki campus but also reinforces a nationwide push to cultivate responsible, capable youths. As the school community looks ahead, organizers hope the lessons of leadership, discipline, and service learned on parade grounds will translate into lasting positive habits across the student body and broader community.
Additional notes
– The event mirrors a growing trend of school cadet programs across Fiji, often supported by visits from top officials and coverage in local media, signaling broad societal support for youth leadership development.
– The focus on conduct and drug-free living aligns with messages shared by military and education leaders during other cadet events, reinforcing a holistic approach to youth empowerment.
If you’d like, I can add a short, reader-friendly sidebar highlighting the cadet training timeline at Nakauvadra High School or include a photo caption draft to accompany the article.

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