Abstract
This study has explored the challenges of field education practicum in the Ethiopian context within selected four public universities. The study, therefore, was undertaken with the purpose of exploration via qualitative case study design. The researchers used multiple data collection techniques namely interview, observation,
document review, and FGDs. They employed a non-probability sampling method, purposive sampling
technique, and the size of the participants was determined based on the principle of data saturation point. The
data analysis took place concurrently with data collection since the approach justifies doing so thematically.
The trustworthiness of the data was secured via member checking, triangulation, and peer debriefing. Ethical
considerations uplifted by informed consent from the participants, and the anonymity of their identity,
confidentiality of the information they provided kept in secret through utilizing pseudo-name. The finding
revealed lack of awareness and commitment, a misconception of fieldwork, limited trained social workers at
agencies, absence of field education coordinator, financial constraints, clients and agencies expectations,
distance and uncomfortable practice environment, language barriers, and problems in report writings are the
challenges to field education practicum. The study suggested that Schools of Social Work develop trust by
having a memorandum of agreement with organizations, providing scholarships to field liaisons, preparing field education conferences, project proposals for grant seeking, to be a member of the Ethiopian social workers professional association, and further studies as well.
Keywords: /Challenge/Ethiopia/Field education/Social Work/