No Y2K problems noticed on Thursday - Griffiths

Accra, Sept. 10, GNA - No Y2K-related problem was recorded in Ghana on Thursday, a possible date of disruption on computers and other related items dubbed "9999". Commander P.M.G Griffiths, a Deputy Minister of Communications, told the Ghana News Agency on Friday that his office had no complaints on the anticipated problem.

"However, this does not mean there will be no Y2K problem by the end of the year," Cdr Griffiths cautioned. The Y2K project office on Wednesday alerted computer users, both in public and private sectors, to be vigilant and watch out for disruptions or interruptions that may occur in the use of their computers on Thursday.

The problem was anticipated because in the early days of computer programming, the code "9999" was used for termination or end of a programme. However, these computers are no longer in use. Commander Griffiths said the ministry's programme to make sure that all computers and other related item users are compliant by the end of September is on course.

He said while the Y2K Office does not rule out a few delays in meeting the September deadline, it is hoped that all the critical sectors and institutions would be ready by then. Y2K is a computer programming flaw that could cause computer systems and other electronic devices programmed to record date information in two digits instead of four to malfunction or completely shut down at the turn of year 2000.