A Ghanaian orthopedic surgeon with over two decades of experience has sparked controversy with a strongly-worded letter to the Spanish Embassy after his visa application to attend a medical conference in Barcelona was denied.
Dr. Agbeko Ocloo penned the letter on April 26, 2015, expressing disbelief and frustration over the embassy’s decision to reject his visa.
He questioned the embassy’s reasoning, particularly regarding concerns about the reliability of information regarding the purpose and conditions of his intended stay, as well as his commitment to leave Spain before the visa expiry.
Dr. Ocloo found these reasons personally insulting, highlighting his deep connections to Ghana, including family ties and economic investments in the country.
The surgeon also criticized Spain’s healthcare system, highlighting issues like high unemployment rates among doctors, low pay for medical professionals, and a shortage of healthcare workers.
“1. The unemployment rate in Spain presently is 25% and youth unemployment tops 50%. Why will I leave a stable job and to go and join the unemployment ranks in your country.
2. From January 2009 to end of 2013, 400,000 Spaniards emigrated to look for work outside of your country. And this is expected to rise in the coming years.
3. Doctors in Spain are the least/worst paid in the whole Euro zone. Why will I want to go work in a country where my counterparts are leaving in droves for economic reasons?” he quizzed.
He argued that his expertise would benefit Spain, even if he chose not to return to Ghana, and emphasized the economic value his attendance at the conference would have brought to Spain.
In concluding the letter, Dr. Ocloo requested a detailed explanation for the visa rejection and expressed his disappointment in the embassy’s decision. He also cc’d the Ambassador of Spain in Ghana, indicating his intention to escalate the matter.
The letter has sparked a debate on social media, with many supporting Dr. Ocloo’s frustrations and calling for a review of visa application processes for professionals from developing countries.
Below is the letter.
