Commenting on many overseas Singaporeans returning to Singapore amid the COVID-19 pandemic, SMU Dean of Students and Professor of Sociology (Practice) Paulin Straughan said Singaporeans will likely resume heading overseas once travel restrictions are lifted. She said, "A large group of these are younger Singaporeans who venture overseas for education and employment. So as long as there are opportunities available, younger Singaporeans in particular will take up the challenge of establishing themselves elsewhere. However, I think while those heading for education opportunities are likely to resume travel, those seeking employment overseas might have to wait a little longer. Covid-19 has caused the global economy to slow down."