📋 Written Ability Test (WAT)/Essay Analysis Guide

Should Countries Adopt Universal Social Security Systems to Ensure the Well-Being of All Citizens?

🌐 Understanding the Importance of Universal Social Security

Universal social security systems directly relate to themes of economic resilience, social equity, and sustainable development—key focus areas for B-schools aiming to prepare leaders for global challenges.

📝 Effective Planning and Writing

• Time Allocation:
  • Planning: 5 minutes.
  • Writing: 20 minutes.
  • Reviewing: 5 minutes.
• Preparation Tips:
  • Gather data on global and national systems.
  • Note examples like Norway (success) and South Africa (challenges).

🔍 Introduction Techniques for Essays

1. Contrast Approach: “While Scandinavian countries excel in universal social security, over half the global population lacks basic protection. Bridging this gap is crucial for equitable growth.”
2. Timeline Approach: “From Roosevelt’s New Deal to Norway’s welfare state, universal social security has evolved as a pillar of inclusive development.”

📚 Structuring the Essay Body

• Achievements: Highlight successful examples like Norway and Finland’s UBI.
• Challenges: Address fiscal constraints, inefficiencies, and potential disincentives.
• Future Outlook: Propose phased adoption, use of digital tools, and global collaborations.

🖊️ Concluding Effectively

• Balanced Conclusion: “While universal social security ensures dignity and equality, its success depends on fiscal prudence and robust governance.”
• Global Comparison Conclusion: “Countries like Norway set benchmarks, but localized solutions are key for diverse socio-economic landscapes.”

📊 Analyzing Successes and Shortcomings

• Key Achievements: Poverty reduction, enhanced societal trust, and crisis resilience.
• Ongoing Challenges: Funding constraints and governance gaps.
• Global Context: Compare Norway’s success with South Africa’s struggles.

🌟 Recommendations for Sustainable Progress

1. Adopt phased implementation starting with vulnerable groups.
2. Strengthen digital infrastructure for effective delivery.
3. Build global coalitions to share resources and best practices.

✍️ Sample Short Essays

• Balanced Perspective: “Universal social security offers hope for equality, yet fiscal challenges demand innovative solutions tailored to each country’s context.”
• Solution-Oriented: “Technology-enabled social security can revolutionize welfare, ensuring inclusivity and efficiency in resource-constrained nations.”
• Global Comparison: “While Norway’s universal model sets an ideal, developing nations must prioritize targeted, scalable approaches.”