The Taiwan students will join more than 500 of their counterparts from Shanghai to kick off the talent-showcasing event in China's financial hub today, according to the Central News Agency.

The highlight of the exchange will see all participating students sing in concert at an arts center, the CNA said.

They will also visit World Expo facilities and major high schools in Shanghai.

The event is a warm-up to the World Expo in Shanghai next year, the CNA added.

The Taiwan students are from seven high schools in various parts of the island, including Taipei and Kaohsiung.