"Understanding the reasons behind learners dropping out of school is crucial for developing targeted interventions. These interventions create safe spaces for young people to access information and services, while also reducing stigma and discrimination," she said.She added that universities and colleges remained a critical demographic for HIV prevention. Alarmingly, nine children under the age of 10 were reported pregnant in Chipinge, Mutare, Insiza, and Chegutu districts.Official data shows child marriages and teenage pregnancies are most prevalent in rural communities, particularly in resettlement areas, mining zones, border regions, and among religious sects. Last year alone, Beitbridge recorded over 30 000 child marriages, Insiza 20 872, Chipinge 12 863, and Murehwa 2 976.According to the 2019 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey, Mashonaland Central has the highest prevalence of child marriages at 50 percent, followed by Mashonaland West (41,7 percent), Mashonaland East (37,8 percent), and Manicaland (36 percent). Bulawayo has the lowest rate at 13,5 percent.These figures have prompted the Government and its partners to scale up interventions.