Public-private "debates"
As long as ownership controls in its own interest, it's relevant. But if "excellence" serving society is more important than returns to ownership, sources of funding become less relevant. Crucial: taking responsibility to perform -- learning what to do; then actually doing it.
The fire department example is revealing. It's primary responsibility is to prevent fires. It's dramatic responsibility is to perform to "perfection" snuffing out fires if they occur. Few firemen take on these responsibilities because they are motivated to make a lot of money.
But ask who a fire department "reports to," and one usually scratches the head. Ultimately, it's responsible for all the lives and property within its primary jurisdiction. Firemen have a mission so obvious that it seldom has to be stated.