AHS 2026 SS QP+MS

Section A (Source-Based Case Study) Answer all questions Being Part of a Globalised World Study the Background Information and the sources carefully, and then answer all the questions. You may use any of the sources to help you answer the question, in addition to the sources which you are told to use. In answering the questions, you should use the knowledge of the issue to help you interpret and evaluate the sources. 1. Study Source A. What is the message of this cartoon? Explain your answer using details of the cartoon. [5] 2. Study Sources B and C. How different are these two sources about the issue of brain drain? Explain your answer. [7] 3. Study Source D. How far does the source prove that brain drain is viewed negatively? Explain your answer. [7] 4. Study Sources E and F. After reading Source E, are you surprised by Source F? Explain your answer. [6] 5. “Brain drain brings about more harm than good”. Using sources in this case study, explain how far would you agree with this statement. [10]

2 What are the challenges of managing brain drain in countries? BACKGROUND INFORMATION Read this carefully. It may help you to answer some of the questions. In a globalised world, human migration occurs due to factors such as political instability and economic opportunities. The term “brain drain” often implies the movement of skilled labour from one country. Some countries welcome this movement as the receiving country is thought to benefit from the skilled labour as it supplements its labour pool. Conversely, others are unsupportive of this phenomenon due to concerns that the emigration of people from source countries often deprives the country of skilled labour. For example, countries such as Sri Lanka face a massive wave of skilled workers emigrating permanently, especially in industries such as medicine, engineering and agriculture. This has presented challenges for the government to ensure that the workforce remains economically competitive. Study the following sources to find out what are the challenges of managing brain drain in countries. Source A: A cartoon published on a Sri Lankan current affairs website. [Turn over

3 Source B: Adapted from an article published on an Indian news website titled “Not brain drain but brain circulation”. A recent survey revealed that 70% of Indian graduates are either planning or considering studying abroad. Yet, most of them are not treating this as a permanent migration. Instead, they intend to return to India for employment after completing their education. Studying abroad is increasingly being seen as an extension of Indian education rather than an escape from it. The idea is not to leave India behind – but to step out, build competence and come back stronger. Many graduates now see India as the eventual destination for their careers. A fast-growing digital economy, expanding financial markets and a surge in startup activity are changing perceptions of opportunity at home. This cycle is becoming clearer: Indian students leave, acquire education and exposure, gain international experience and then return with enhanced skills and global perspective. Source C: A cartoon published on a Jamaican news website in response to the dire state of education in the country.

4 Source D: Adapted from a social media website regarding a post on brain drain. The comment was made by an Indian national in response to the post. When I chose to move to the USA, it meant a high paying job and a fast-growing career that will secure the future of my family. After being there for two decades, while I am thankful for these opportunities, I realised that there is also a tremendous amount of toil and sacrifice that comes with this decision. Being away from my parents and extended family has been emotionally taxing. It is painful to be half a planet away and not rush to their side when they need you the most. I lie to myself every night about why this trade-off makes pragmatic sense, but deep down I wish more than anything that I can have it both ways. Source E: Adapted from a comment by a concerned Singaporean on his insights on the future of Singapore’s job market. The comment was published on a popular online social forum in 2023. I always knew that there was some competition in the job market but after trying to enter the job market in Singapore, it really opened my eyes to the sheer number of foreigners trying to work and live here. Seriously, we, the younger people need to start treating this as a real issue and stop being overly comfortable in our bubble. While many of my local batchmates have the right skillsets that fit the role, they are considering relocating overseas due to the competition. If nothing is done and we are just accepting status quo, we will get squeezed out of our country at an alarming rate. Source F: An excerpt from a written reply by a Singaporean Minister. She was responding to questions in Parliament in 2025 about manpower and talent. Singapore will continue to welcome talent who complement our own capabilities. We will at the same time press on with our priority in developing our local workforce. By investing in our people, enhancing our business environment, strengthening our connectivity and fostering a vibrant tech and innovation ecosystem, we are confident that Singapore will remain a leading global talent hub.

5 [Turn over SECTION B (Structured-Response Question) Answer all questions. Living in a Diverse Society Study the extracts carefully, and then answer the questions. Extract 1 A picture showing a local family inviting migrant workers to their home for a meal. It was part of an initiative by fellow Singaporeans called ‘Makan with Me’. Makan means eat in Malay. Extract 2 Differences in cultural backgrounds can sometimes lead to conflicting views. These conflicting views can lead to prejudice, inaccurate judgement and discrimination. Extract 3 The inflow of foreigners into Singapore is meant to meet Singapore’s shortage of manpower. However, Singaporeans are concerned about the heightened competition with foreigners over limited resources such as job opportunities and infrastructure.

6 6. Extract 1 shows a photo of a family bonding with migrant workers over a meal in their home. In your opinion, what qualities should Singaporeans possess to promote a harmonious society? Explain your answer with two qualities. [7] 7. Extracts 2 and 3 show the challenges that can arise from living in a diverse society. Do you think stereotypes, prejudice and discrimination are more challenging to manage than competition for res