Concerning the curriculum, Myanmar language, English and mathematics are the core subjects. At the lower primary level, general studies include both social and nature studies. At the upper level, basic science and social studies (including geography, history, moral and civics, and life skills) were introduced in the 1998/99 school year. Life skills education has been introduced at schools as part of the national curriculum with the objectives of imparting skills to live in conformity with the environment and to practice appropriate basic life skills for a physically and mentally healthy life and to protect from commonly occur preventable diseases. It deals with the psychosocial competencies such as problem solving, creative thinking, critical thinking, decision making, communication, self awareness, interpersonal skills, empathy, and ability to cope with emotions and stress.