π Written Ability Test (WAT)/Essay Analysis Guide: Can Blockchain Reduce Corruption in Developing Countries?
π Understanding the Topicβs Importance
Blockchain holds transformative potential to curb corruption, a pervasive issue in developing countries, by ensuring transparency in financial systems, public procurement, and record-keeping. For B-school students, understanding blockchain aligns with the study of ethics, governance, and digital transformation.
π Effective Planning and Writing
- π Time Allocation (30 minutes):
- π Reading & Planning: 5 minutes
- βοΈ Writing: 20 minutes
- π Review: 5 minutes
- π Suggested Structure:
- π Introduction: 60-70 words
- π Body: 350-375 words
- π Conclusion: 60-70 words
π‘ Introduction Techniques
- Contrast Approach: “While corruption drains $1 trillion from developing nations annually, blockchainβs transparent ledger offers a beacon of hope.”
- Solution-Based Approach: “Blockchain, with its immutable records, could redefine governance by eliminating fraud in critical sectors like land and public spending.”
ποΈ Structuring the Essay Body
- Achievements:
- π Highlight global examples like Estoniaβs e-governance success.
- Challenges:
- π Barriers such as digital illiteracy and high costs.
- Future Outlook:
- π Propose integrating blockchain with AI and fostering public-private partnerships.
βοΈ Concluding Effectively
- Balanced Conclusion: “Blockchain can serve as a vital tool to curb corruption, but its effectiveness hinges on infrastructure development and stakeholder commitment.”
- Future-Focused Conclusion: “For blockchain to succeed, developing countries must prioritize digital literacy, infrastructure, and governance reforms.”
π Analyzing Successes and Shortcomings
- π Key Achievements: Transparency in financial systems, efficiency in public procurement.
- β οΈ Ongoing Challenges: Resistance to change, lack of legal frameworks.
- π Global Context: Estonia, with over 99% of its public services online, serves as a model for blockchain-driven governance.
π± Recommendations for Sustainable Progress
- π§ Develop digital infrastructure and skills.
- π Introduce blockchain in phases, starting with high-impact areas like public spending.
- π€ Collaborate internationally to adapt blockchain best practices.
βοΈ Sample Short Essays
- Balanced Perspective: “Blockchain’s potential to reduce corruption is unparalleled due to its immutable nature. However, without infrastructure and legal frameworks, its adoption in developing countries remains a challenge.”
- Solution-Oriented: “Adopting blockchain can transform governance in developing nations by ensuring transparency. Key to its success is investing in digital literacy and robust cybersecurity.”
- Global Comparison: “While countries like Estonia lead in blockchain adoption, developing nations must overcome infrastructural and societal barriers to replicate similar success.”