Bradford’s City Hall hosted the seventh annual Anthony Walker Memorial lecture in conjunction with the National Union of Teachers.

The theme last night was how to use education to build a fairer future.

The lecture, on the principle of equality in education, was given by Hawa Bibi Laher, who is head teacher of Spring Grove Junior, Infant and Nursery School in Huddersfield.

She said: “We live in a democratic country and should encourage children to be free-thinkers. We have a moral obligation as educators for each and every child’s well-being.”

Guests were welcomed by Councillor Ralph Berry, executive member for education, who spoke of Bradford as a city of innovation in education.

“Diversity drives us forward as a city, and we have a duty to promote cohesion in our schools,” he said.

Thanks were given by Dr Gee Walker, who founded the Anthony Walker Foundation in her son’s honour to promote harmony.