Analysing the significance of soft skills in the field of education, the author of the article emphasises their role in the formation of academic knowledge and a harmoniously developed personality along with effective learning. Key soft skills such as communication, emotional intelligence and leadership skills are discussed through the examples of successful leaders and companies. The article elaborates on the unique programmes of Almaty Management University, “Service Learning” and “TOLYQ ADAM”, aimed at developing these skills in students. The author, based on the concept of the great Kazakh philosopher Abay, concludes that it is necessary to integrate soft skills into educational programmes to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.