Schools - Ortencia led a class on business practicalities at the local high school. The class was given to "Terminal" students, those in the last year of high school. School in Togo is much tougher than you'd imagine! Students have to pass a rigorous test at the end of each year in order to be promoted. It is common to be held back. In addition, at specific years, students must pass tests to earn diplomas. This happens at the end of jr. high, at the end of 11th grade, and at the end of 12th. The 12th grade test results in a baccalaureate diploma (for high school), referred to as the "Bac." This is an all-essay test covering history, geography, philosophy, art, gym, german, english, french, literature, and other subjects that i'm sure I'm missing. The test is HARD. I don't honestly know if I could pass it. It is common for students to have to take the test 4 or 5 times before passing. The Bac is coveted because it signals a completion of high school, opens up the possibility of government jobs, and allows entrance into university. I met several people in their mid-20s still trying to earn their Bac.