Obama's speech to women graduates

US President Barack Obama delivered the commencement address at Barnard College, affiliated with his alma-mater Columbia University.

In a speech that connected the economic uncertainty of his graduating class with today's, Mr Obama told graduates to believe they could make a difference.

"Because as tough as things have been, I am convinced you are tougher," Mr Obama said. "I've seen your passion and I've seen your service. I've seen you engage and I've seen you turn out in record numbers."