A shortage of qualified teachers is a critical problem in the Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) sector. This study investigates the barriers that hinder the preparation of competent TVET teachers in Ethiopia.

A qualitative case study involving 20 purposively selected teacher educators was used as a data source. The study revealed numerous challenges, including weak student admission criteria, a lack of teacher competency standards, irrelevant curriculum, theory-focused training, limited resources, an ineffective quality assurance system, gaps in teacher educators' practical and pedagogical skills and industry experience, interest, and motivation ,and leadership issues.

The study concluded that various limitations beset TVET teacher training and urgently require reform. In this regard, it is critical to attract high-quality and motivated candidates, establish competency standards, adapt the curriculum to meet the specific needs of TVET teachers, involve industries in the training process, and enhance the competencies of teacher educators through industry placements.

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